A Rocky Start

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This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents either are the product of the author's imagination or are used fictitiously. Any resemblance to actual events, locales, organizations, or persons, living or dead, is entirely coincidental and beyond the intent of either the author or the publisher. Granite: A Rocky Start COLOR BOX An imprint of Torquere Press Publishers PO Box 2545 Round Rock, TX 78680 Copyright © 2010 by GH Worth Cover illustration by Alessia Brio Published with permission ISBN: 978-1-61040-104-3 www.torquerepress.com All rights reserved, which includes the right to reproduce this book or portions thereof in any form whatsoever except as provided by the U.S. Copyright Law. For information address Torquere Press. Inc., PO Box 2545, Round Rock, TX 78680. First Torquere Press Printing: November 2010 Printed in the USA

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Granite: A Rocky Start

By G.H. Worth

Chapter One Monday Noon Detective Baxter Alexander glanced at his watch, a deep annoyed frown furrowing his brow. "Three hours wasted that I won't ever get back again. Three." He snorted in disgust. "This waiting drives me crazy." "And you think I enjoy it?" his best friend and partner, Juan Sanchez, asked. "I don't." "I never said you did," he snapped back. Hanging out at the courthouse waiting for his turn to testify might be unavoidable, but that didn't mean Baxter had to like it. In fact, he hated it. Waiting, sometimes for countless hours, took him away from active investigations, and today he had a stack of open case files sitting on his desk screaming for his attention. Now, who knew what was going on? It was sixty minutes and counting since Judge Whitman had recessed the courtroom and taken both the defense and prosecution attorneys into his private chambers for a conference. Baxter had a bad feeling, and if the case fell apart, he thought he might be forced to shoot somebody. Possibly multiple times with a large caliber gun. "Will you calm down? Getting angry isn't going to change anything. You know it won't." A Rocky Start - 3

Baxter flipped Juan off. "It won't change anything, but it still makes me feel better, so deal with it." "You're a real joy to be around when you're angry and frustrated." "So you've told me many times before." He glanced at his watch. "I have stuff to do. I can't stand around here the rest of the day doing nothing!" "You might need to." Juan snagged Baxter's jacket sleeve, pulling him toward the courthouse entrance. "It's late enough in the morning that nothing's going to happen now until after lunch. I'm meeting Alice at that burger place we ate lunch at last week. Do you want to join us? My treat." "No thanks. I'm not fit company for a lady, right now." "It's not like she's never seen you foaming at the mouth before." "Dickhead." Baxter grumbled and kept walking. Juan was right. In the five years since they'd become partners and best friends, Alice had seen both men angry and upset more times than he could count. "Yeah, but this time it's a fresh angry. Go. Kiss your understanding wife and enjoy lunch together. I need time alone to cool-off, or the top of my head might explode. Tell your gorgeous woman I said hello and that when she's ready for a real man, she has my address." Juan laughed at the old joke. "She doesn't have the right parts to interest you." A Rocky Start - 4

"Sad but true." Baxter stood at the front entry and sipped his lukewarm coffee as he watched Juan hurry down the marble steps and turn the corner toward the parking lot. At the thought of food his stomach rumbled, reminding him that he'd gotten up late and missed breakfast. He'd just decided to head down the street for lunch at his favorite deli when he heard footsteps coming up behind him. "Alexander. Hey, Baxter. Wait up a minute." Hearing his name, Baxter turned and waited for his friend, Greg Miller, to catch up with him. "What's going on? I'm headed out to grab a bite to eat. I didn't have time to eat this morning and I'm starved." "Sorry, buddy. No can do. The Henderson case is going down the toilet and the Assistant DA needs to talk to you and Juan. Pronto." He looked around. "Where's Juan? He was just here." "He left. He's meeting Alice for lunch." Baxter looked down the courtroom steps. "Well, damn. I had my heart set on a hot pastrami sandwich and onion rings." Greg stepped closer. "Fill your stomach later, Mr. Carnivore. You have to go. Now." "I don't want to talk to Cameron Hamilton; he's an annoying, condescending know-it-all." Which sounded good, but wasn't the real reason Baxter didn't want to talk to the man. The real reason being the A Rocky Start - 5

Assistant DA was too good-looking for Baxter's peace of mind, and just the right size to fit against his larger frame. The ADA was also the man he wanted like he needed his next breath. Behind the younger man's conservative dark suits, tailored shirts and tasteful but trendy silk ties, Cameron hid a lean, muscular body Baxter wanted to see spread naked across his bed. "You are too. Condescending I mean. Maybe that's why the two of you butt heads every time you're in the same room for more than five minutes." "Funny, Greg. Real funny. Har. Har." "You'll find him in conference room three. Get going before he blows a gasket." Leaving his friend behind, Baxter headed down the hall, adult enough to realize he didn't have a choice, but irritated because he didn't like it. He was never happy when others told him what to do. That was especially true of the self-confident and cocky Assistant DA who made him more than a little nuts and hard as a rock every time they got within ten feet of each other. Even that wasn't the whole truth. In reality, all it took was for Baxter to think of Cameron's squeezable butt, dark brown eyes, and lean muscled frame and he went stiff as a board, often at inappropriate and embarrassing times. Like earlier in the morning when he was standing in front of Captain O'Dell, and Juan innocently mentioned the ADA and their scheduled early morning court appearance. In fact, his instinctive physical response to the ADA annoyed him. A Rocky Start - 6

On the short trip down the hall, two officers stopped Baxter with questions and comments about the Henderson case, including remarks on the deal the defense attorney was likely to try for. He chatted briefly with each detective for a couple of minutes before using the excuse of his sudden meeting with Cameron to get away. In truth, he wasn't anxious to be alone with Cameron. Being alone could get him in trouble. Too much trouble. Uncertain what to expect, Baxter stepped into the conference room, closed the door, and found the man in question pacing the confined space in agitation. "I'm here. What do you need? I was going down the street to grab a sandwich." "It's about time. I have work to do and don't have all afternoon to stand around waiting on you." The snotty, holier-than-thou attitude only made Baxter angry. "Cut the attitude, counselor. I came as soon as I got your message. What's so important I couldn't eat lunch first?" Cameron slammed the lid on his briefcase. "The defense lawyers managed to convince Judge Whitman to throw out the DNA evidence on the Henderson case. All of it. Even the defendant's hair found on the victim's body. That means I need you and your partner to find something -- anything new we can use to put this murdering bastard on death row." "You've got be kidding me." Baxter rested his palms on the scarred surface of the table and leaned over it. "What the hell happened?" he snarled. "The evidence we A Rocky Start - 7

collected was rock solid and the backbone of our case." He was furious and being unreasonable, and he knew it. They’d spent weeks putting together their case, only to have the rug jerked out from under them at the last minute, so Baxter was way past pissed. He pulled his foot back and kicked a chair into the wall, knocking it over. "The crime scene was released weeks ago, and the building manager didn't waste any time having it cleaned. Hell, the apartment's already occupied again. There isn't new evidence to find. Why didn't you stop it?" "Right. I might be good, but I can't control a liberal judge with a bias against the DA's office." Cameron sank into his chair on the opposite side of the table. "Damn." The remark and obvious frustration broke the growing tension and defused Baxter's anger. "Let me get a calendar. I need to write this date down. Our beloved hot shot ADA is admitting he isn't perfect -- that he's human." Baxter grinned and pulled out a pen. "At least let me write it on a piece of paper so I can remember to tell the guys down at the station. They won't believe it." "You're a comedian, Detective Alexander." "I try to be amusing occasionally." He glared across the table. "We've known each other for what... going on two years? When are you going to relax, remove that steel bar from your spine and call me by my first name? It's short and easy to remember. It's Baxter. Use it."

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"Fine. You're a comedian, Baxter." Then Cameron did something childish, unexpected and a little hot. He stuck out his tongue. "Satisfied?" The sight of Cameron's pink tongue sticking out from between two full, kissable lips almost made Baxter groan out loud. The man made him crazy. It wasn't just because Cameron was an obsessive control freak who demanded perfection from everyone involved in a case he prosecuted, from the forensic experts, down to the last witness. No, that would be the easy and safe answer. In reality, the sexy fucker revved Baxter's engine like no other man he'd ever met. It took all of Baxter's self-control not to reach over the narrow table, grab the lapels of Cameron's jacket in both fists and jerk the hardheaded man into a kiss hot enough to set the room on fire. "What are you, five?" Baxter continued to stare, and for a few seconds allowed the heat he felt to set his gaze on fire. "Or is that tongue wagging at me an invitation to kiss you until the top of your head blows off?" Cameron gasped and sputtered, and then his mouth slammed shut. Seeing the normally calm, cool and tightly wound attorney speechless made Baxter grin. He couldn't help it. "How'd you find out I was gay?" Cameron's eyes narrowed and a red flush stained his cheeks. "My sexual preference isn't your business." He started to pace again, and Baxter could almost see the gears turning in his A Rocky Start - 9

head. "I won't let you use my sexuality against me. I'll go to the District Attorney myself first." "Whoa. Whoa. Who said anything about going to the DA or anybody else?" What the hell was going on? In a flash of true inspiration, Baxter realized why Cameron rarely talked of anything other than a case, and never developed out-of-office friendships with the people he worked with. Shit! Someone in Cameron's past had found out his sexual orientation and tried to blackmail him. "I never said I'd tell anyone. Calm down and stop jumping to conclusions." "What else could you want from me, if not to hold the knowledge over my head, and use it to get a favor to call in at a future date? Or are you after money, instead?" Baxter rolled his eyes and moved closer. "Who fucked with your mind, Cam? Stop burying your head in your ass and open your eyes. "Hah. I knew it," Cam barked, his voice filled with angry, righteous indignation. "I knew it. You do want something from me." As Baxter took another step forward, Cameron took one step back. "For Gods sake, calm down. Yes, but what I want isn't bad. At least I hope you don't think so." "Then what do you want?" Cameron asked warily. Damn, but the man was making this more difficult than it needed to be. "I want you to take a couple of deep breaths, relax, and agree to go on a date with me." A Rocky Start - 10

"Excuse me? A date? With you? A date." Cameron's eyes got big as saucers. "You're gay?" "It's not a secret, I just don't advertise it." Baxter chuckled, reached out to snag a wrist and pulled Cameron closer. "If I wasn't gay, I doubt seriously I'd be asking you out to dinner, would I?" "No, I guess not." Cameron's shoulders drooped and his hands unclenched. "I didn't mean to insult you." A small smile curved the corners of his lips. "Your question took me by surprise." "I got that from your little freak-out." Cameron snorted and an expression of disgust flashed across his face. "I never freak out." "Right! I'm sorry to break the news to you, Counselor, but you did." Hoping the door stayed shut, Baxter brushed a knuckle across Cameron's jaw. "Are you better now?" "Yeah. I didn't mean to suggest you were a dirty cop." "Oh, I'm dirty." Baxter winked. "But only in a sexual way." Cameron placed a palm on Baxter's muscular chest and pushed, moving him back a few inches. "Do you kiss your mother with that mouth?" "Don't change the subject. What's it going to be? Date or no date?" A Rocky Start - 11

"I can't believe I didn't guess you were gay." "Cameron, stop stalling and answer the question. What's it going to be?" "You're an annoying, pushy man." "And sexy. Don't forget sexy." Cameron rolled his eyes. "Sexy, arrogant fucker." He jerked Baxter's phone out of its belt holder and quickly added his cell and house phone numbers to the memory. "A courthouse conference room also isn't the place to discuss dating, or anything personal." Baxter crossed his arms over his chest and leaned back against the table. "So, when do you suggest we talk about the aforementioned subjects?" "I'm scheduled for a meeting with the DA," Cameron glanced at his watch, "in five minutes, and another at four-thirty with a witness. I'll be home by six, with luck. Call me and we'll talk." Evening After leaving Baxter in the conference room, Cameron refused to think about him the rest of the day. At least Cameron tried not to think about him, but without much luck. Every time he turned around something or someone reminded him of the sexy blond detective. As much as Cameron hated to admit it, Baxter drove him nuts. In truth Baxter'd driven him insane for months. It wasn't only the sexy, broad shouldered body A Rocky Start - 12

that revved his engine, but Baxter's confident, nononsense, take-charge personality, too. Wanting Baxter Alexander was miserable. The frustration had gotten so bad, that six month ago he'd stopped dating. When Cameron realized the sexy detective was the man he wanted, dating other men seemed pointless and uncomfortable, almost like he was cheating by letting another man touch him, making his skin crawl. Now, it seemed the man of his dreams -- a man he'd thought unattainable, wasn't straight after all. Thank God! When Cameron had finished his last meeting of the day, stopped at his favorite Mexican restaurant for take-out and driven home, it was six-forty. He was late and in all likelihood, Baxter had already called. As he climbed out the car and slammed the door, his elderly neighbor stepped out of her house with her old, overweight Basset Hound, for their nightly walk around the block. "Mrs. Olsen, how are you and Bernard this evening? How's your hip?" "We're both fine, Cameron. Are you all right? You're home early." Was he? God, he was. He hung his head. She was right. He was home hours earlier than usual because he had no personal life. "I thought I'd work from home tonight. I'm expecting a friend to call."

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"Cameron, I worry about you. You spend too much time at work or alone. It's not healthy. You need to find a nice man and settle down." "I think I might have found..." Cameron stopped and listened. "The phone's ringing. I gotta go, Mrs. Olsen. That's probably him now." She smiled and shooed him toward his front door. "Go, dear. Talk to your man, but later I want to hear all about him." After fumbling with his keys and almost dropping his take-out boxes on the welcome mat, Cameron managed to get into the house before the phone stopped ringing. "Don't hang up. Don't hang up." He grabbed the portable phone out of its station on the hall table, hit the talk button and promptly dropped it on the floor. "Shit." Then when he reached for it, he slipped on the entry rug, kicking the phone into the living room and under the table next to the couch. "Damn." Cameron scrambled for the phone, certain Baxter would be gone. "Hello." "Cam, what the hell is going on? Are you all right?" The sound of worry in Baxter's voice warmed and relaxed him. "I'm fine. I dropped the phone and kicked it across the room." "Did I catch you at a bad time? I can call again later." "No. No, that's not necessary." Cameron picked up his briefcase and dinner, and headed for the kitchen. "My A Rocky Start - 14

meeting ran later than expected and I just walked in the door. Do you mind if I eat while we talk?" "No. Go ahead." Cameron pulled a fork from the drawer next to the sink. "How was the rest of your day? Were you able to find any more evidence we can use in the Henderson case?" "Stop right there, Cam. This is date call. No comments or questions about work." Cameron frowned at the reprimand, even while understanding it. If he and Baxter were going to get better acquainted, they needed something besides the criminal justice system in common. "You're right. I'm sorry. What do you want to know?" Baxter chuckled, the warm, husky sound going straight to Cam's balls. "What foods do you like?" "Ethnic foods of all kinds, but I'm particularly fond of Mexican, Italian and Chinese." "I enjoy those as well. What foods do you hate?" Cameron shuddered remembering all the overcooked vegetables his mother had tried to make him eat while growing up. "Brussels sprouts, liver, cooked greens, anything with avocados, and meat cooked less than medium well." He shuddered again. "Don't ever ask me to eat sushi. It's never going to happen. The thought of eating raw meat makes my stomach roll."

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"No problem. I don't eat sushi either. What about books? Who are your favorite authors?" "Andy McDermott, Clive Cussler, Lincoln Childs and other action adventure authors." He glanced at his briefcase. "I've been carrying around the last James Rollins release for a month." "That just proves how much we have in common. I read those authors too, but enjoy a few select e-press authors as well." Baxter paused for a second and Cameron heard a door slam. "What's your opinion on gay erotica?" "I knew it. You're a perv." "How do you feel about hot, panting, phone sex?" "What kind of question is that? Do you go around asking everybody you're interested in to participate in phone sex with you?" "An honest question." Baxter chuckled, the deep rumble making Cam's toes curl. "Don't get your briefs in a wad. I'm not asking any man about phone sex but you, Dork. Now, answer the question." "No." Cameron picked up his fork and dinner carton, dropping one in the sink and the other in the trash. "We haven't had a first date yet. It's not suitable to discuss phone sex with a virtual stranger." "Oh, my God. You're a prude." "I am not," Cameron snapped back. A Rocky Start - 16

"Prove it," Baxter purred into the phone. "Answer three questions for me. What do you sleep in? What's your favorite sexual position, and do you prefer flavored or plain lube and condoms?" The questions were too much, and painted a picture in Cameron's head he couldn't ignore. His heart pounded, his skin was hot and tight, and thinking of Baxter and sex in the same sentence made him rock hard. Not that he'd admit how being close to the cocky detective affected him. Not on your life. "Fine." Cameron pulled a large glass from the overhead cabinet and filled it with ice and water. He slugged down half, trying to cool off. "I'm cold natured, so I sleep in knit sleep pants and a T-shirt. Lube and condoms come in a wide variety of flavors and scents and I haven't tried them all, but I'd prefer nothing fruit flavored." "Got it. Nothing fruity. I'm waiting, Cam. Answer my last question." Cameron ran a hand through his neatly groomed hair, making it stand on end, wanting to answer, but uncertain if he should. He shrugged his shoulders. What the hell. Why not? "On my back, so I can see my partner's face." "See that wasn't too difficult." There was slight pause. "We both had a long day, and need sleep." Soft jazz music came on in the background. "Meet me at noon at the deli down the street from the courthouse. Don't be late." And Baxter was gone without a good-bye.

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Chapter Two Tuesday Morning It was only nine-thirty and Cameron already wanted to pull his hair out. While driving to work he’d gotten a flat on the inter-state in the middle of rush hour traffic making him late. Then he’d had the misfortune of meeting the one person he didn't want to see, his boss, District Attorney Ed Milligan. The man didn’t even let him get settled, just followed him down the hall and into his office. Placing his briefcase and coffee mug on the desktop, Cameron turned, plastering a fake but hopefully sincerelooking smile on his face. "Can I help you, Ed?" "What happened to you? There's a large grease smear on your shirt." "Great." Cameron peered at his white shirt, and yes, there was a large streak of black just above his belt. "On the way in, I ran over a board with nails, and had to change the tire. At least I don't have court this morning." Ed sat his coffee on the desk and sank into a chair. "I realize your day isn't starting off well, but has there been any headway in the Henderson case?" Here it came. The conversation he didn't want to have, and the one guaranteed to make his boss unhappy. Cameron took several swallows of his now lukewarm coffee and shrugged out of his suit coat. "You're not going to like it. The news isn't good." A Rocky Start - 18

"Tell my anyway. I need to be ready when the press starts hounding me again." "I spoke to Detective Alexander at length yesterday and he isn't hopeful there's any new evidence to find. He and his partner are going to re-check the witness statements and re-canvas the area, hoping to find someone new willing to talk, but he's certain no one will come forward." "Have a forensics team go back over the scene again," Ed suggested. "It's possible they'll find something we can use." "After what Alexander said yesterday, I checked with the owner. After he regained possession of the house, he had the walls patched and painted, and the carpet replaced. A young family with kids and pets moved in a month ago." Ed groaned and slumped back in his chair. "What happened to the rug they removed?" Cameron shook his head. "It's gone. Sent to the dump almost two months ago." "We're screwed." "Tell me something I don't already know." Noon The morning hadn't gone well and Baxter's temper was ready to boil over. He and Juan had spent hours going A Rocky Start - 19

over the crime scene photos, reviewing what evidence and eyewitness testimony they had on the Henderson case, and they'd come up with nothing new. No new evidence, witnesses, or alternative suspects. Nothing. Not a single speck of anything useful. Every person they'd talked to either didn't know, didn't see or didn't care who murdered Jeremy Henderson. The only thing everyone agreed on was that their only suspect, another low-life who'd terrorized the neighborhood for years, needed to spend the rest of his miserable life behind bars. "I don't understand why we're busting our butts on this case. It doesn't matter that we know Montgomery is guilty, we still can't prove it. He's going to get away with murder. Again." Juan glared at his partner. "I swear to God, if you don't relax and calm down, you're going to get an ulcer. You've snapped, growled and snarled all morning. You need to lay off the caffeine." "What I need this for the damned case to be over. There isn't any new evidence, no one else will come forward and our only witness is an elderly man with a long history of heart problems who's in failing health. We're fucked and we can't do anything about it." "You're right." Juan frowned. "I hate to admit it, but you're right. The killer's going to walk." Baxter shook his head and grinned at the frown of utter frustration on his partner's face. "How painful was that? Admitting I'm right. I mean." A Rocky Start - 20

"Like having a tooth pulled without anesthetic" "Good." "You're a jerk." "I live to annoy you." "I know." Juan signaled and changed lanes. "Where do you want to eat lunch?" "Sorry, buddy." Baxter pulled out his cell phone. "Unless something's come up, I have a lunch date with a sexy younger man." Luckily they were already slowing for a stoplight. Juan slammed on the brakes so hard, Baxter flew forward and then back so hard his head bounced off the whiplash rest. "What's wrong with you?" "Are you serious? A lunch date? Who with? Anyone I know?" "Are you trying to kill us?" Baxter rubbed the nape of his neck. "I trust you with my life, so I’m trusting you with this secret. That means you can’t tell a soul -- not even Alice. Understand?” He waited for Juan’s nod of stunned agreement before he continued. “It’s Cameron Hamilton." "Assistant DA Hamilton? Are you nuts?" Baxter dialed and waited. "Maybe." A Rocky Start - 21

As the phone rang, the light changed to green and Juan eased off the brake and pulled through the intersection. "You could have picked any guy. Why him?" Before he had a chance to answer, Baxter heard Cam's voice. "Hello." "Are we still on for lunch, Counselor?" "Hell, yes." Cameron chuckled. "I didn't have time for breakfast and I'm starving. I could eat a horse." Baxter heard papers rustle and a drawer slam. "I don't think the deli serves horsemeat." *** As soon as Cameron hung up the phone, he peered over his shoulder to see if anyone was watching before pumping his arm in victory. "Yes!" Not wanting to miss a minute of lunch with the hunkiest man he'd ever met, Cameron grabbed his keys, cell phone and briefcase, and hurried out the door. He was stopped twice before he made it out of the courthouse and once more halfway down the steps. When he managed to tear himself away from another attorney who couldn't shut up, he was five minutes late. When Cameron walked into the deli, he saw so many people standing at the take-out counter he missed Baxter sitting at a small table in the back corner, until Baxter stood up. A wave of relief swept through him, releasing tension in his shoulders he hadn't realized was present until it was gone. A Rocky Start - 22

Baxter waved and motioned him to the table. Tucking his briefcase close to his body, Cameron wove his way through the mixed crowd of children and adults. He reached the table and dropped into the seat across from Baxter. "Sorry I'm late. Colleagues stopped me a couple of times as I was leaving the building." "No problem, handsome." A bright flush spread over Cameron's neck, making him feel like a socially awkward, geekie teenager who'd found out the boy he liked, liked him back. "I've never come in at lunchtime before." He looked around the packed room. "I didn't realize it would be so hectic." He peered over his shoulder at the line which was getting longer by the second. "It's a madhouse in here." "They got busier after they added gourmet coffee, fancy desserts and a soup of the day a few months ago." Baxter slid a menu across the table. "We'd better order. Your lunch hour will be up before we know it." Cameron stared at Baxter over the menu. "The selection's huge. Is there anything special you recommend? What are you having?" "Everything's good here." Baxter reached out to touch Cameron's hand for the briefest second. "I'm having a Turkey Melt and a bowl of Baked Potato Soup." The light brush of Baxter's fingertips across the back of his hand froze Cameron's vocal cords. He swallowed, opened his mouth to speak and then swallowed again, A Rocky Start - 23

certain he looked like a fish out of water gulping for air. "Your hand is hot." "Just like the rest of me." Baxter winked again. "You're pretty hot stuff yourself, ADA Hamilton." Cameron's eyes widened, but he didn't jerk his hand back. "You're incorrigible." He checked around the room for anyone he knew. "We're across the street from the courthouse, where I work... in public." "And you need to stop worrying what other people think and relax before you blow a gasket. We're having lunch, not going to an execution." "Thank God." Cameron shivered. "I hate sitting in the observation room waiting for a criminal's death -- even if he deserves it." He shrugged. "It throws me off stride for the rest of the week." "Okay, Counselor, subject change to something more suitable." "Shit. I did it again." Cameron groaned and wanted to sink through the floor. What was wrong with him? "I'm sorry. You must think I'm a moron." Baxter shook his head. "No, not a moron. Intense and literal, yes. You're also intelligent and focused." He leaned forward, his voice dropping to a whisper. "And I want you focused on me and thinking about what I'm going to do to you the first time you're naked in my bed." Cameron gasped and ducked his head. "Not so loud." A Rocky Start - 24

"Relax. No one heard me. I also promise not to take out a full page advertisement in the paper announcing the day we have sex, either," Baxter teased. "Your secret's safe, babe." Instead of getting upset, Cameron found himself relaxing under the flirting and easy smile of his lunch companion. "You sound sure of yourself." "I'm sure of us. You may not have known I was gay, but it doesn't change the fact we've danced around each other for over a year. It's time we danced together." "What an unexpected and romantic statement to make, Baxter. I'm shocked." "Hey, I can be romantic." "Prove it." "There's a classy gay club across town. How about dinner and dancing tomorrow night?" "Are you talking about The Fedora Club, because if you are, count me in. I've heard nothing but good comments about the outstanding service and great ambiance. Supposedly the food's to die for." "You don't know the half of it. Everything about the club's first-rate." Baxter chuckled and leaned back in his chair. "So, if I'm not talking about the previously mentioned club, you're not interested in going with me?"

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"Don't be ridiculous. Wherever you want to go is fine with me, but I do have a question. Since the club is exclusive and hard to get into, how are you planning to get a reservation on less than a day's notice?" Baxter grinned, his blue eyes twinkling with amusement. "For me it's not a problem. My best friend from college, Gavin, and his partner, Jamie, own it." Evening Cameron sat in the otherwise empty waiting room and slumped back onto the worn plastic chair. He shifted his weight and tried for the hundredth time to get comfortable on its stained, lumpy surface. It was late and if the nurse he was waiting on didn't come back soon he might have the first hissy fit of his adult life. When he received the phone call that their witness had regained consciousness, he'd grabbed his briefcase and a small digital recorder, and driven to St. John's Hospital, hoping to speak with the ailing man. It was now nine and Cameron had been up since six a.m. He'd worked for hours, wrapping up as many details as possible so he'd be worry free and able to enjoy his dinner with Baxter the next evening. That meant he was tired, hungry, and wanted to sit down on his couch with a cold bottle of beer and put his feet up for a few minutes before showering and crawling into bed. He pulled his cell phone out of the holder and checked the time. The clock on the far wall was right, which meant he'd been waiting for thirty long, boring minutes. A Rocky Start - 26

He wasn't sitting around any longer. He was leaving. He was going home. Screw it. Cameron walked out the waiting room door and down the short hall to the nurses' station of the Medical ICU. He peered past the desk at the seeming chaos and signaled the first person who looked in his direction. "Excuse me." A tall, thin, black man with a small gold ring in his right ear stepped closer. "Can I help you?" Cameron stared at the man's ID badge. "Yes, Todd. Thank you." He extended his hand and waited until the other man grasped it. "I'm with the district attorney's office, and I'm waiting to see Mr. Zimmerman. Do you have any idea when I can go in?" "Oh, man. I'm sorry. He's not doing very well again. Let me find the charge nurse." Before Cameron could object, Todd was gone and he was back to waiting. He turned away and leaned against the counter. Before he'd gotten the phone call hurrying him from the office to the hospital, he'd had hopes of ending his long day with a bedtime chat with Baxter. Now it wasn't going to happen, even if he had looked forward to it the entire day. The thought might be sappy, but it didn't stop him from reaching for his phone. It rang and he almost dropped it. Cameron squinted at the caller ID screen. Well, speak of the devil. Baxter. "Hello."

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"Hello yourself." He heard a frustrated sigh on the other end. "Where the hell are you, Cameron?" Someone sounded a little unhappy. "I'm at the hospital." "Are you hurt?" The sharpness of Baxter's voice cut through the phone line like a knife. "What happened? Do you want me to come get you? Why didn't you call me?" "What? No. No." "What? You're not hurt or you won't tell me?" The deep rumbling possessive growl coming from someplace deep in Baxter's chest should have made him angry, but surprisingly it didn't. In fact, just the opposite. It caused Cameron to go from flaccid to fully erect and pushing against his zipper in under five seconds. He scanned his surroundings, spied the rest room sign, and walked across the hall and in through the door. "No, I'm not hurt," he snapped, as he entered the first available stall and shut the door. "And stop making that growly noise. It makes my dick hard." "Oh, really?" "Yes, really." Arrogant, sexy fucker. "What was that banging noise?" "If you must know, that was me slamming the restroom door, so I could adjust my penis in private instead of doing it while standing in the hall." A Rocky Start - 28

Baxter chuckled, the sound now more like a loud, satisfied purr. "If you're going to 'do it', I think we probably should be in the same room." Cameron choked on his own saliva and started to cough. He pounded on his chest and tears filled his eyes. "I can't--I can't believe--believe you said--said that," he finally managed to get out. He sucked in a deep, painful breath. "Are you trying to kill me?" "No, but if I was with you, I'd be more than happy to adjust your cock." Cameron washed and dried his hands. "You're impossible." "No, for you, I'm easy. Now, stop changing the subject. Why are you at the hospital?" "I'm waiting to see if I can talk to Mr. Zimmerman. He woke up two hours ago." Cameron left the rest room and headed back to the nurses' station. He peered over his shoulder and noticed a short blond coming his way. "Hey, Baxter. Hold on for a minute." "I'm sorry to keep you waiting so long, Mr. Hamilton," the nurse said, "but I'm afraid you won't be able to speak with Mr. Zimmerman tonight. He developed breathing problems, and had to be sedated and put on a ventilator." "Any idea?" Cameron asked hopefully. "Any at all when I might be able to speak with him?"

A Rocky Start - 29

"No, I'm sorry. We can call your office again if something changes. Good night." "Well, damn. That sucks." He'd forgotten Baxter was still waiting and jumped on hearing his voice. "What's going on?" "Our lone witness isn't doing well. Again. Still. Damn it." Cameron checked his watch and groaned on seeing it was almost ten. "As much as I hate to, I'd better say good-bye, so I can call the DA before it gets any later. This news isn't going to make him happy." "Damn is right. You're just full of good news. Since you're not here, I was hoping for a little phone sex."

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Chapter Three Wednesday Morning "Earth to Baxter. Earth to Baxter." "Don't be an ass, Juan." "If you're finished with your personal phone calls for the morning, do you think we can get to work? You remember work, don't you? Criminals. Dead bodies. Evidence. Witnesses." Baxter flipped his partner off. "Hey, my calls are important. And don't tell me I could have made them from home. I forgot to call Gavin yesterday and he doesn't answer his phone until after nine, and I need a secluded table reserved for dinner tonight." "Taking Assistant DA Hamilton to the Fedora Club? It's a little fancy isn't it? And a bit pricey?" "I want to make a good impression on our first date." Juan chuckled and stopped at the light. "I never thought I'd see it, but you're smitten with the man." "What if I am," Baxter sputtered. "Are you telling me you didn't act the same way with Alice?" "No, I didn't. I've no idea what you're talking about." "Liar. You've been married for what -- ten years, and you still make goo-goo eyes at your wife." A Rocky Start - 31

"I do not." Juan kept his eyes on the road. "There's nothing wrong with a man loving his wife," he grumbled. "I never said there was." Baxter passed his partner the last glazed doughnut. "All right, I hate to admit it, but I like this guy -- a lot, so it's only natural for me to want this first date to go well. Come on, Juan. Even you can admit, Cameron's damned cute." "The man's too old to be considered cute. He isn't a teenager and he isn't a doll you can play with. He's a grown man, a professional who probably wouldn't like it." Playing with Cameron was exactly what Baxter had in mind. He'd lusted after the reserved man for over a year, and now he'd finally get the chance to get acquainted with Cameron outside work, and if his luck held, get the man into his bed. That sounded about right. Talk. Play. Love on the man and have blistering hot sex until they couldn't walk. "He might not be a doll, but that doesn't mean I can't play with him." "Why do I try to talk seriously with you? Not everything in life is a joke." "Lighten up. I'm just jerking your chain. You know I like getting you riled up." Baxter shrugged his shoulders, his smile gone, and his expression now serious. "What do you want to hear? I've waited months A Rocky Start - 32

for this date and if I don't make a good impression, I might not get the chance at a second one." "I don't know what to say, Bax, except I’m surprised. You've always seemed more like a love 'em and leave 'em kind of guy." "Don't hold anything back, Juan. Please, tell me what you really think." "What? Would you prefer I lie to you?" "No, if you can't tell me the truth, no one can," Baxter grumbled as he flipped Juan off. "Shut up and drive. I want to repeat the last two interviews before lunch. I want this case done. I'm sick of it." Afternoon "Hey Baxter, Captain Williams wants to talk to you and Juan. Now." "Thanks, Phil." Baxter rubbed his jaw and thought about throwing his stapler across the squad room. He didn't want to talk with his boss, at least not about the fucked up murder case that had turned into the bane of his existence. "Come on, Bax." As Juan walked past, he slapped Baxter on the back of the head. "Let's get this over with." A couple of minutes later, he and Juan walked into their captain's office, shutting the door behind them. "Take a A Rocky Start - 33

seat, gentlemen." The captain turned away from his computer. "You two don't look too happy to be here. Afraid of what I might say?" "Don't be silly, Joe, we're always glad to see you." Juan nudged Baxter. "Aren't we, partner?" "Speak for yourself. I never want to talk to the man." "The two of you make me crazy with your constant sniping." Juan flipped his partner off. "At least not unless he's standing at a pool table with a beer bottle in his hand." "I do love a good game of pool," Joe said. "But you're still a pain in my ass." "Right back at you." Baxter grinned. "If I had to make a guess, it'd be that you want to talk about any new leads we've made in the Henderson case." "Give the man a cigar." Joe interlaced his fingers. "The DA knows it's probably hopeless, but he still wants you to concentrate on it, in case something surfaces that could help. I, on the other hand, can't see us wasting any further man hours on it, so you're done. Tomorrow, get back to your other cases." On hearing those welcome words, Baxter wanted to jump up and cheer. Their Captain continued. "If the DA or ADA gives you any trouble, tell them to take it up with me." A Rocky Start - 34

Evening "So, what do you think of the place?" "I think it's wonderful." Cameron smiled and reached across the table to grasp Baxter's hand. He squeezed it briefly before dropping his hand back onto his lap. "Thanks for bringing me here." His head swiveled left and right taking in the subdued scene around them. "It's quiet and refined, but comfortable. I like it." "That's what Jamie and Gavin were after when they started planning it. They wanted a classy place a gay man could take a date, without worrying about scandalizing another diner if they held hands or kissed." "I can understand that." Cameron sniffed as a waiter carried a tray past their table. "Is the food as good as the reviews indicated?" Baxter laughed low and deep. "It's always been good, but it's gotten better since Jamie hired a new chef six months ago. The man's a genius at creating new, tasty and interesting dishes." He leaned forward and his voice dropped to a whisper. "He's a nice enough guy, but I hear he's a tyrant in the kitchen." "You understand correctly." "Gavin." Baxter started to stand. "Sit. I don't want to disturb your evening, but wanted to meet your date." Gavin smiled and extended his hand to Cameron. "Believe me, it's a pleasure to see you with A Rocky Start - 35

our old friend. When Bax called and wanted a table for tonight, Jamie and I were certain something was up. Despite having an open invitation, he never brings a date here. This is a first." "Really?" Cameron arched an eyebrow in question. "Isn't that interesting." "Yes, isn't it?" Gavin agreed. "He's usually more a beer and hamburger kind of date. He must want to impress you. Is it working?" "And I'm sitting right here." Baxter elbowed his friend in the stomach. "You might want to remember that I also carry a big gun." Cameron's eyes widened. "You're wearing a gun? Tonight? On our date?" "Of course, I'm wearing my gun." Baxter flipped open his jacket to reveal his shoulder holster. "I never leave home without it." "I understand from an old source, a mutual friend, that he even sleeps with it tucked under his pillow," Gavin said. "Admit it." "I do not," Baxter replied, in an irritated tone of voice. "I leave it on the nightstand next to the bed." Seeing the lighter side of Baxter’s personality when they’d first arrived was an unexpected treat Cameron loved. What he didn't like was the change elicited with Gavin’s arrival. The man knew how to push Baxter’s buttons -- hard -- and to avoid ruining their evening the A Rocky Start - 36

growing tension between the two men needed defusing and fast. "All right, kids." Cameron chuckled and threw his wadded up napkin at Baxter's head. "Time out. Don't make me send you to your rooms without dinner." Gavin smiled graciously and bowed. "Baxter, your handsome friend is right, and I shouldn't have antagonized you, even though it's fun. I bid you both a good evening, but first, please order anything you like, as my gift to you on this special night." "That's very kind." Cameron nudged Baxter's foot. "Isn't that nice?" "Yes, very nice, babe." Baxter bared his teeth at Gavin. "Don't you have someone else to annoy? Like your partner, or one of your faithful employees. I'd like to spend time with my date. Alone. Go. Away." "As you wish, my old friend." Gavin bowed again, smiled at Cameron, then strolled away. "Well, that was an interesting conversation." Cameron leaned closer. "If I didn't know better, I'd think you two only tolerated each other." "Nah, we're great friends. We have been for years." Baxter closed his menu and pushed it aside. "Since Gavin is picking up the tab for our dinner, go ahead and splurge. He'll expect it." Cameron sipped his wine and stared at his dinner companion over the rim. "What am I going to do with you?" A Rocky Start - 37

"Is this a game of twenty questions?" Baxter leered and Cameron's face heated. "Because I have a few ideas on what you can do to me, and if you're lucky we'll get at least a couple done before the night is out." "Down, boy. I've looked forward to our date all day. Food first and then fun." "Kill joy!" For a small nightclub, The Fedora Club had a huge number of entrée selections on the menu and it took several minutes of debate for them both to make a final decision. Dinner consisted of perfectly grilled steaks with small plates of lobster stuffed ravioli in a rich cream sauce, fresh baked bread with white truffle and mushroom butter, and bowls of crisp salad. Instead of wine, they had iced tea, each tall glass studded with thinly cut lemon slices. They ate, enjoyed the club's calm, comfortable atmosphere and chatted about their lives. Baxter talked about the trip he'd taken with his brother to Florida the summer before and the deep-sea fishing they'd done. His description of their attempt to reel in a monster-sized swordfish had them both chuckling. When he got to the part of the story where the fish pulled his brother overboard, they laughed so hard the other diners turned to stare. After dinner, while they enjoyed a delicate raspberry almond cheesecake with its accompanying dessert wine, the conversation turned to Cameron, who talked of his love of gardening and his plans for landscaping his A Rocky Start - 38

backyard into a quiet, private oasis. A place where he could retreat to and relax from the pressures of his job. The evening was everything Cameron expected and more. Baxter teased him and he teased back. They laughed some more, shared bites of silky smooth dessert and even held hands across the table. "I bought a little gift for you." Baxter gently slid their fingers apart and reached inside his inner jacket pocket for a small card and blue velvet bag. "You can open it now. It's not something that will embarrass you." "That's a relief." Cameron took the offered gift. "You shouldn't have." He opened the envelope and extracted the card, a small pleased smile curling his lips as he read the message. You’ve driven me out of my mind for months But I’m happy we’ve finally gotten to know each other better. Please accept this small token of my affection And remember me every time you wear it. "You're a closet romantic. I'm surprised." "Don't be. I have hidden depths." Baxter nodded to the gift. "I hope you like it." "I'm certain I'll love it." Cameron upended the bag and an intricately woven black leather bracelet with a heavy silver closure fell into his hand. "It's beautiful." A pleased smile brightened Baxter's face. "I thought it was dressy enough to wear with your suits, but still A Rocky Start - 39

casual enough for everyday. One of my old friends designs custom leather clothes for a select clientele, and he occasionally makes necklaces, bracelets and other small items." "He's very talented." Cameron handed over the bracelet. "Put it on me." The bracelet fit well, not too tight or too loose, the black leather a good complement against Cameron's pale skin. He was so thrilled with Baxter's thoughtfulness that he didn't know what to say that didn't sound girly or sappy. So he kept silent, smiled and squeezed Baxter's hand. "It looks good." "Yes it does. Let's make a toast." After pouring more wine, Baxter handed back Cameron's glass. "Here's to many more enjoyable evenings together." Late Evening "Son of a bitch." The angry tone of Baxter's voice startled Cameron and he lurched to a stop, but didn't see anything alarming until he caught sight of the big ugly black gun in Baxter’s hand. "What's going on?" He peered about again, this time conscious of the un-lighted corners of the parking lot. "What happened?" "Some moron vandalized my car." He pointed to his car and three others which sat close by. "Shh. Stay behind me and keep quiet." A Rocky Start - 40

On seeing the broken windshield and flattened tires, Cameron's first thought was he wouldn't want to be the person responsible when Baxter caught him. The second was what if the vandals were still around. Cameron crept forward and grabbed the back of Baxter's jacket. "What are you going to do? Should we call the police?" His eyebrow arched and his voice dripped with sarcasm when Baxter answered. "Did you forget? I am the police." "Then take out your phone and call for back-up." Cameron peered around the dimly lit, deserted parking lot again. "I don't like this. I don't like it at all." "Then go inside and let me do my job," Baxter snapped. "No. I'm not leaving you alone and running away like a scared kid. Forget it." Baxter grabbed Cameron's sleeve and tugged him behind a dark SUV. "Then stay here and keep quiet while I check it out. Can you do that for me, babe?" "Yes, I can, but don't do anything stupid. I mean it. No heroics." A quick brush of Baxter's lips against his was his only answer. Cameron was an avid supporter of law enforcement, but personally, guns scared him to death, which explained why he prosecuted criminals in courtrooms instead of catching them on the streets. He held his breath as he A Rocky Start - 41

watched Baxter check the area around the damaged cars, looking inside and under each vehicle. Seeing his almost lover with a gun in his hand was not only scary as hell, but truth-be-told, so hot Cameron could hardly breathe. He reached down and adjusted his throbbing cock, trying to relieve the pressure. Before tonight, everything about Baxter pushed his buttons, and now his desire for the sexy detective was even sharper, leaving him feeling a little desperate and needy. His eyes focused on the back of the lot, and saw his date coming toward him. Baxter smiled at him, and Cameron's shoulders relaxed. "Are the police on their way?" Pulling him close, Baxter rested his chin on top of Cameron's head. "Yeah, they should be here soon. Why don't you go inside and call a cab, and I'll talk to the responding officers? They don't have to see you." Oh, God, Baxter was going to keep his name off the police report, so he could stay in the closet. Baxter was trying to shield him from exposure. Before he had time to consider the ramifications of his actions, Cameron opened his mouth and the words, "I think I'll stay," came out. "Are you sure? I don't want you to feel obligated just because we're here on a date," Baxter rushed to assure him. "If you don't leave now, by morning it'll be all over the police department and courthouse that you're gay. That we were at a gay club together."

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"I know I freaked out the other day, but since you invited me to dinner I’ve thought a lot about what would make me happy.” Baxter frowned. “Is this something I want to hear?” “Living a lie isn’t healthy. I decided I can’t hide forever." Cameron moved closer. "I understand that you're trying to protect me, but if we're going to keep dating, I'm not willing to hide. It'll come out eventually, and it might as well be on my own terms." He stared at Baxter, afraid to ask his question, but afraid not to. "Is that what you want... to keep dating, I mean?" "Didn't we just toast to more evenings together?" Baxter kissed Cameron hard and quick. "Just try to get rid of me." "It's settled then. I'm staying." "Okay then." At the sound of a door slamming, Baxter's attention shifted to the restaurant entrance. "Here comes Jamie and Gavin. I called them after I notified the department." "They look unhappy." Unhappy was a severe understatement. Both Gavin and the man Cameron assumed was Jamie had similar expressions of barely controlled rage. The owners moved across the area separating them like an advancing army -- intent, powerful and with a purpose that said don't get in my way, or I'll roll right over you.

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"What the hell is going on out here?" Gavin snapped as the two men reached the damaged vehicles. "Are you two all right?" "We're fine." Cameron peered over his shoulder. "I can't say the same for my car." Jamie frowned and moved closer. "We've never had any problems before." "Welcome to the twenty-first century boys. No one and no place is safe these days." Baxter tugged on Cameron's sleeve, pulling him closer. "I suggest you call a security company in the morning and arrange for more lights and possibly some cameras." Fifteen minutes later the four men were still discussing the best course of action to protect the club and its customer's privacy when a police car pulled into the parking lot. Two officers climbed out and strode in their direction. "Who called in the vandalism report?" "That would be me," Baxter replied. He nodded behind him. "I checked the area, but didn't see anyone in the vicinity." The taller of the two officers stepped forward. "That wasn't smart, sir. Next time let the police handle it. You could have gotten hurt or killed. " Jamie made a loud, disgusted snort. "He is the police." He pointed to Baxter. "Show them your badge." As Baxter moved to open his jacket so the responding officers could see the badge mounted on his belt, both A Rocky Start - 44

jerked back and the younger of the two drew his gun. Baxter calmly lifted his hands away from this body. "Easy boys. I was only going to show you my shield." "Don't move," the taller officer snapped. He took two steps closer, and leaned forward to carefully push aside the right side of Baxter's jacket. When he saw the gold badge, his shoulders visibly relaxed and he stepped back. "Next time you might want to say something before going for your jacket." "You're right. I wasn't thinking." Baxter stuck out his hand and the men shook. "The name's Baxter Alexander." The younger of the two officers stepped forward. "And why are you at a gay club?" Baxter looked at Cameron. "I'm on a date."

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Chapter Four Thursday Morning Baxter rolled his shoulders and twisted his head from side to side, the pop and creak loud in the enclosed space of the car. He was tired, cranky, and his head throbbed like a bass drum on steroids, and if he didn't get more caffeine into his system, he might kill the next person who dared speak to him. Unfortunately for Juan, that meant he'd be the one to endure Baxter's displeasure. From the second he'd entered the squad room to finish a few reports early that morning, nothing had gone smoothly. Far from it. He'd dropped the coffeepot, shattering it, sending small glass shards and coffee over the floor, and splattering the dark elixir of life up onto his pant legs. He groaned at the memory. At least he'd had a clean pair of jeans shoved in his bottom desk drawer. "There. Stop right there." Baxter leaned forward and pointed to The Beanery, the coffee shop up the street. He rubbed his hands together in anticipation of the surge of caffeine coursing through his veins. The sensation lasted until the car drove past the entrance without slowing. "Hey, why didn't you stop? I'm dying here, Juan." "Stop whining." "I'm not whining. I'm desperate." A Rocky Start - 46

Juan chuckled and changed lanes. "If you're this tired, it must mean your date went well last night. Real well." "The date went great." He pointed to a McDonald's on the next corner. "It was afterwards that our evening went to hell." "What's that supposed to mean?" Juan asked as he turned into the drive-thru. "What happened after? Did he wear you out with wild sex, or did you piss him off and get sent home with blue balls?" Baxter rolled his eyes, since neither was close to the truth. "Details, partner. Details. Don't tell me ADA Hamilton wouldn't put out?" The question shouldn't have surprised Baxter, yet it did, but what shocked him to his core was how much his partner's enquiry into his sex life pissed him off. For the first time in his life he felt protective of a man and wasn't willing to talk about the specifics of a date. And he wasn't talking about whether his man put out or not. That's when it hit him. He loved Cameron. Oh, shit. How had that happened? He glared at Juan... then he growled. Juan whipped his head around, took in Baxter's expression and turned back to the road. "What. What'd I say?" "Watch your mouth," Baxter snapped. "How'd you like it if I asked you that same question about Alice?" A Rocky Start - 47

"Whoa, I never thought... I didn't mean..." Juan

sputtered. "Forget I asked." He pulled the car up to the

microphone and ordered two large black coffees and two

bacon, egg and cheese biscuits.

Unlike most times, when they would talk constantly, this

time they paid for their food and sat quietly while they

waited for their order. Not a word passed between them.

For the first time they acted uneasy with each other.

That alone made Baxter feel like an ass. "Don't get used

to this, but I shouldn't have jumped down your throat.

I'm sorry."

"Accepted. Don't worry. I won't."

After a quick stop at the pickup window, they headed

down the street again. Baxter grabbed the bag from

where Juan had placed it on the seat, divvied up the food

and leaned back, gripping the coffee cup with both

hands. He sipped the life-giving black liquid and sank

back onto the seat as the first surge of caffeine hit his

system. "God, that tastes good." He took another sip.

"It's just what I need to feel human again."

At the next light, Juan grabbed his own coffee and took

a sip. "Now, do you want to tell me what crawled up

your ass or do I need to guess?"

"Making you guess would serve you right, but it would

just annoy me more." Baxter held up his hand when his

partner started to speak. "Except I won't. The date was

good. The problems started when we found my

windshield broken and tires slashed. I called it in, which

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meant the responding officers knew we were dining at a gay club." As the light changed from red to green, Juan picked up his biscuit. He took a bite, talking while he chewed. "You've never worried before about anyone learning you're gay. Why start now?" "Because until last night, Cameron wasn't out. I offered to call a cab so he could get out of there before the police arrived, but he refused. The rumor mill is probably working overtime with the gossip that we were on a date." "Does it matter?" "Not to me, but I’m worred about how it might effect him." "Call and talk to him. The worst he can do is to call you a bastard for ruining his life and tell you to take a hike." "Gee, thanks Juan. That makes me feel so much better."

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Mid-Morning As soon as Juan slammed the car door and walked away, Baxter grabbed his cell phone and dialed. He drummed his fingers against the armrest and waited. Then he waited some more, impatient to speak with Cameron before his partner returned to the car. "Come on, babe," he mumbled. "Answer the phone." The phone continued to ring and the thought that Cameron might be in court or a meeting flashed through Baxter's mind. Had Cameron said what his schedule was for the day? Baxter couldn't remember; they'd talked of so many things over dinner. He stared into the convenience store and saw Juan standing in line, three back from the counter. "Damn it, Cameron. Where are you?" "Hello." Baxter frowned at the tired sound of Cameron's voice. "Babe, did I catch you at a bad time?" "No. I'm glad you called. I could use the diversion after spending all morning with the DA." "You sound tired." "I am. I didn't get much sleep after you dropped me off." He heard Cameron yawn. "I'm sorry it took so long to finish with the police. I should have sent you home in a cab so you could have gotten some rest." A Rocky Start - 50

"And I wouldn't have gone, so drop it please." "You're a stubborn man, aren't you?" Looking back at the building, Baxter found Juan at the front of the line and realized he needed to end his conversation before his partner got back. The annoying, nosy old busybody. "I called to ask if anyone was giving you trouble about last night? I was worried." "That's sweet, but aside from a couple of snide remarks from a sleaze ball defense attorney who doesn't like me, no one's said a thing." "Good. I don't want last night to become a problem for you." Baxter tried to stifle a yawn and failed. "We're both tired, but I was hoping we could spend some time together tonight." "I am exhausted, but would like to see you. Do you want to meet here in my office? I should be done by five." "Sounds perfect. I'll see you then." Baxter hoped that once he got to Cameron’s he could stay awake. Just as Baxter said goodbye and ended the call, Juan opened the door and slid into his seat. He handed over another steaming cup of coffee and a large bag of chips. "They bought a fancy new machine. I had them add a shot of espresso to yours. With the circles under your eyes I'd say you could use it." "Thanks for the critique on my appearance. Having you confirm I look like the living dead is so comforting." A Rocky Start - 51

"Hey, just trying to help." "Right. Like I believe that." Baxter gave Juan's shoulder a shove. "I don't understand why I put up with you." "Shut up and drive." Late Afternoon When Cameron got back to the office after a late lunch, he was so exhausted he almost fell asleep over his computer keyboard. He woke up with a start, and it was a fluke he hadn't drooled down the front of his only clean shirt. His favorite tie wasn't so fortunate, but at least he had two others in his desk drawer. "Son of a bitch." He pulled on the knot, nearly strangling himself and after a couple of firm tugs, and jerked the tie free. "Damn it." "Tsk-tsk, Cameron Hamilton. Your language." He glanced up to find his secretary, Madeline, standing in the open doorway and in a moment of inspired selfpreservation decided she shouldn't be in the office when Baxter arrived. "Why don't you take the rest of the day off?" Hoping she'd jump at the chance to leave early and not ask any questions, he added what he hoped was a sincere sounding, "You work hard and deserve some extra time off." Crossing her arms over her ample chest, Madeline glared at him suspiciously. "We never leave early. A Rocky Start - 52

You're trying to get rid of me." She moved farther into the room. "What are you up to?" "I have no idea what you're talking about." She snorted delicately, a sound that clearly showed her disbelief. "Try again." "If you weren't my sister's best friend, I'd tell you to mind you own business." "When has that ever stopped you?" Cameron glared at his secretary. "Never. You and Allison are nothing but trouble and have been a pain in my neck since you were in high school. And you’re a nag. About my diet, my suits and the men I date." "Tough. Are you going to tell me or not?" Without warning she smiled. "Wait a second. You have a date with that detective you've been mooning over for months, don't you?" She pointed a finger at him. "And don't lie to me." He lifted his hands in surrender. "Jeez. You're worse than my mother. Yes. I'm going on a date with Baxter tonight. Satisfied?" "Yes, I am. I'm happy the rumors flying around about the two of you are true. You spend too much time alone. You need to get out -- to have a personal life. To have a little fun." Cameron rolled his eyes. "It's almost four, so go home and start your evening early. I only have a little more A Rocky Start - 53

work and he's supposed to be here in an hour. I think I can manage to answer the phone until I leave." Madeline headed for the outer office. "I'll see you tomorrow, and I expect a full report on how your date went -- with details." "Not on your life. There's no way in hell you're getting any details." He shooed her away. "Go. Get out of here. Leave before I change my mind." As soon as he was alone Cameron went back to the paperwork he needed to finish before he could leave for the night. He rushed through half a dozen emails, signed a stack of papers Madeline had typed after lunch and returned three phone calls that couldn't wait until the next day. He poured the last cup of extra strong coffee and waited for the needed surge of caffeine to hit his system. Considering what had happened the night before, it didn't surprise him that he'd been too wound up to sleep when Baxter had dropped him off at home. He'd tossed and turned for what seemed like hours, unable to keep the smirks and grins of the two responding officers who'd taken the vandalism report out of his head. Both men had been friendly enough once they learned who he and Baxter were, but they had still left him feeling like a bug under a microscope. It was an emotion Cameron didn't like, but he'd known when he refused to leave Baxter to deal with the police it would result in the exposure of their sexuality.

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Cameron was thrilled that it was almost five and that Baxter should be arriving any second. Maybe, just maybe, they'd spend the evening together and finally, finally, end up in bed together. So far they hadn't had much luck, but maybe tonight would be different. He grinned and shook his head. The idea of getting Baxter alone and naked had his cock perking up and doing a happy dance. Oh, yeah. He liked that idea a lot. Another quick glance at the clock and he was shutting down his computer and shoving the files he needed for court the next morning in his briefcase. He watered the plant on the window ledge, and locked his desk and filing cabinets. It was five-fifteen and he was ready to leave. Where was Baxter? He wanted to get out of the office before something came up and ruined their evening. Again. He was reaching for the phone when his office door opened and Baxter stepped inside and shut the door. "Sorry, I'm late, babe. It took longer than I expected to pick up my rental car." "It's fine. Don't worry about it." Cameron grabbed his briefcase and slipped his cell phone in its holder. "Let's get out of here." "Not so fast." Baxter grabbed his wrist, and pulled him closer. "We're not going anywhere until I get a kiss." "If you kiss me now, we might not get out of the office at all." A Rocky Start - 55

"Would that be so bad?" Cameron kissed him quickly and stepped back. "Yeah, it would. Our first time together needs to be in a soft bed where it won't kill my back." "Sounds like the perfect way to end the evening.” Baxter tried to pull Cameron back into his arms. "Do we stop and eat, or order delivery once we get to my house?" "If we get delivery, we can play while we eat." With their fingers laced together, Baxter pulled Cameron toward the door. "Chinese or pizza?" "Pizza with a side of sauce." He reached out and tweaked Baxter's nipple through his shirt. "I'm conservative, not a prude. Will you let me lick the extra sauce off with my tongue?" "Oh, yeah. I'll even let you dip breadsticks in the sauce if it'll get your mouth on me." "Let's get two orders." Opening the outer office door, Baxter turned off the light, and ushered Cameron through the door. Cameron turned, shut and locked the door behind them, and they headed down the hall to the elevator. They stepped inside, and when the elevator stopped on the second floor where the DA had his office, Cameron wanted to groan. In the doorway stood the man able to ruin their evening again. Edward Milligan, his boss.

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"Cameron. Just the man I hoped to find. I was afraid you'd left for the day." The glare Baxter aimed at Milligan was hot enough to peel off wallpaper. "Baxter and I were on the way to dinner." "Sorry, but eating will have to wait. I need you over at St. John's Medical Center ASAP. Hal Zimmerman had another heart attack this afternoon and they don't expect him to survive the night. I need you to find out if he has any useful information before he kicks the bucket." "Damn, that's stone cold," Baxter said. Despite the seriousness of the situation, all Cameron could think was, not again. Evening The trip across town to St. John's took longer than usual. Between heavier than normal rush hour traffic and a jackknifed tractor-trailer wrapped around an SUV and a telephone pole, the highway was like a parking lot. Baxter and Cameron were only two of the hundreds of people stranded motionless on the highway, stuck between exits, without any chance of getting off. In fact, they'd sat in traffic so long Cameron dozed off and started to snore. "Babe." There was no response. "Babe." Still nothing. "Cameron. Wake up." A Rocky Start - 57

"What? Let me sleep another five minutes. Just five minutes. Please, just a little longer." Baxter turned into the parking lot, backed into the closest empty slot to the hospital entrance, and shut off the engine. "Cameron, you gotta wake up. Babe, we're at the hospital." Cameron rubbed his eyes and stretched. "God, I'm sorry. I didn't mean to fall asleep. What time is it?" He looked at the digital clock and groaned. "It's nearly seven-thirty. You should have woken me." "You needed the sleep. Don't worry about it." They climbed out of the car and slammed the doors. "It was rude and watching me sleep must have bored you to death." Baxter grabbed Cameron's arm and tugged him toward the entrance. "It was quiet and gave me a chance to think." "I still need to apol--" Baxter made a slicing motion in front of his throat. "Stop it, and don't apologize again. I said it was fine and I meant it." He hustled Cameron forward. "If we get this interview done, we still might have time for drinks and appetizers before I let you go home to collapse." After stopping briefly at the information desk, they took the elevator with four other people to the third floor. As the door opened, the others stepped off, allowing Baxter to move closer, his voice dropping to a whisper. "You A Rocky Start - 58

do realize that because it took us so long to get here, Zimmerman could already be dead?" "With the bad luck I've been having this week, the man will have died five minutes ago." "Damn, but you're having a pity party." Baxter stopped, but Cameron kept walking. "Are you including me in your week of bad luck?" Cameron stalked back to Baxter, a dark frown on his face. "Don't make stupid comments or put words in my mouth." He poked Baxter in the chest. "Especially since you're the best thing that's happened to me in weeks." "Good. Just checking." "You're impossible." "Yeah, but you like me anyway." Side by side, they started down the hall, their hands brushing as they walked. They were less than ten feet from the entrance to the intensive care unit when they heard a loud wail, followed by yelling and the sound of several people crying. Cameron stopped and grabbed Baxter's sleeve. "I told you. A week of bad luck. He pointed at an older grey haired woman surrounded by several other crying adults. "Zimmerman's dead, and so is our murder case. Damn, but my boss isn't going to be happy."

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Chapter Five Friday Morning Baxter wanted to hit someone, and he wanted it to be the arrogant murderer walking toward him. If Montgomery's sleaze of an attorney hadn't convinced Judge Whitman to throw out the prosecution's most damming evidence, the murdering bastard would be in prison instead of going out to celebrate his release from custody. It wasn't fair or right, and there wasn't anything he or anyone else could do about it. When Montgomery reached the spot near the door where Baxter stood, he stopped to gloat. "I bet it just burns your hide that I'm walking out that door a free man." "I'm not worried. I'll get another chance at sending you away. You'll fuck up again, you can't help it and I'll be right there ready to haul your pathetic ass back to jail. Next time, we'll make it stick and with luck you'll spend the rest of your miserable life on death row." "You're a mean, vindictive bastard, Alexander." Montgomery sauntered to the open door and stopped to look back at Baxter, a huge grin on his face. "You're also a good cop, but you're just not good enough to catch me. Better luck next time... if there is a next time." "Never doubt it, Henderson," Cameron snapped. "When you mess up, we'll be waiting. Now, get out of my sight before you're arrested for loitering." A Rocky Start - 60

Baxter and Cameron watched as the now free murderer flipped them off and walked away, his steps far too relaxed and unworried to make Baxter happy. As Henderson reached the doorway, Baxter pointed his hand at the man's back, his thumb and index finger mimicking a firing gun. "Somebody needs to do the world a huge favor by putting a bullet in that asshole's brain." "Shh. Baxter, not so loud." "What? You don't think the world would be better place without him?" "That's not the point. I'm an officer of the court and don't want to hear you making threats that could get you in trouble." Baxter rolled his eyes at Cameron's expression of outrage and grabbed his arm to pull him into a hug, when he remembered where they were standing. "Don't be daft. I said I wanted him dead, not that I was going to kill him." "Well, that's a relief." "You're being literal again, babe." A faint pink flush spread over Cameron's face, and down his neck. He stepped close enough to bump their shoulders. "I love when you call me babe." A quick scan around the nearly empty room assured Baxter of their privacy. "When we talked last night, I forget to tell you that tonight and tomorrow afternoon A Rocky Start - 61

I've got this family thingie going on. Can we catch a movie and pizza on Sunday? I want to see you. Alone. Away from work, other distractions and people interrupting us." "A movie and pizza sounds great. Throw in a couple pitchers of cold beer, and the night will be perfect." Baxter grinned and brushed the tips of their fingers together. "No, perfect would be you and me, naked in my bed." "That means we buy beer, rent a couple of movies, have the pizza delivered, and turn off the phones so no one bothers us." He leaned closer, his voice dropping to a husky whisper. "We can spend the whole evening naked, if we want to." "Thanks a lot. Now I won't be able to get the thought out of my head the rest of the night." Baxter grasped Cameron's wrist. "Come on." He pulled Cameron to the open doorway on the other side of the room. "We may not get to spend the evening together, but that doesn't mean I'm letting you leave without getting a kiss." Cameron's eyes widened and pleased smile spread across his face. "Yes, please." The consultation room door closed behind them and Baxter pressed their hips together, the hard ridge of his cock throbbing against his lover's thigh. "You make me crazy." "But you make me crazier." Cameron nipped at the skin behind Baxter's ear. "But it's a good crazy and I don't A Rocky Start - 62

intend to give you up." He reached down between their bodies and palmed Baxter's erection, making him groan low and deep. Cameron chuckled and ran his hand from base to tip. "You like that don't you, honey? My hands on you?" "God, yes." Baxter groaned again, his fist stilling the hand currently driving him wild. "If you keep that up, I'm going to come in my pants." Another quick nip at Baxter's neck and Cameron stepped back. "We can't have that. How would you explain the wet spot to Juan?" "Are you trying to get yourself in trouble?" Baxter growled. "Because you're heading in that direction." Cameron reached around to pinch Baxter's butt, grinning when he yelped and jumped. "I'm shaking in my shoes." "You little shit." "But, I'm your little shit." Baxter wrapped his hand around the nape of Cameron's neck, pulling him closer. "Damn right and don't you forget it." He looked at the man in his arms, a stern expression on his face. "I also don't share." "Good. I don't either." Cameron glanced at the clock hanging on the opposite wall. "I need to go. I have a meeting with the District Attorney in a few minutes." Cameron's voice dropped to a whisper, his breath on Baxter's necks causing him to shiver. "When you get A Rocky Start - 63

home tonight, give me a call. We can try for phone sex again." "Babe, you're killing me," Baxter groaned. Afternoon Busy was usual in the district attorney's office, but this week had turned out to be worse than normal. After spending nearly all week in court, Cameron wanted to go home and collapse from exhaustion, and the dark circles under his eyes showed how little sleep he'd gotten the last week. "Cameron. Cam." Madeline appeared in the doorway, holding several sheets of paper. "You need to sign these before you leave for the weekend." "Can't it wait until Monday? I want to get out of here." "No, it can't." She dropped the papers down in front of him. "It won't take but a minute. Sign the darn papers and get it over with, and stop complaining." "You're a pushy, pushy woman." Cameron grabbed a pen and scrawled his signature at the bottom of each page. "Satisfied?" "Yes, although your handwriting could use some work." Madeline smiled and grabbed the papers off the desk. "You can go home now, Grumpy Gus."

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"Go away, you annoying woman. Away." He waved her out. "Go and bother some other unlucky person. Don't you have a boyfriend to irritate or harass?" She headed for the door. "Thanks for reminding me. I need to call him about our date tonight." Cameron sighed and leaned back in his chair, pondering his week. Nothing had gone smoothly from the minute he'd stepped inside the courtroom Monday morning. It had only gotten worse as each day progressed, and knowing he couldn't have changed the result didn't make it any better. Grumbling about the unfairness of fate, he grabbed his coffee and drained the mug. By all rights the Henderson case should have been a slam-dunk win, but instead it had ended in the first thrown out case of his legal career due to lack of evidence. Technically, Cameron hadn't lost the case, but it felt like he had. And he hated losing... at anything. He especially hated it when a criminal slipped through his fingers because of the antics of a high-paid but knowledgeable sleazy defense attorney. The only good thing about the entire week was his new understanding with Baxter, even if every time they tried to get close enough to get intimate, something or someone got in their way. It was like the fates wanted to keep them apart. It was maddening and had driven him a little crazy -- make that horny -- all week. But right now, this second, on a Friday afternoon, none of that mattered. Since Cameron had missed lunch, he'd A Rocky Start - 65

survived on coffee, making his stomach cramp, and it felt like he had five pounds of grit in each eye. What he wanted was food, a couple of cold beers and a nap, not necessarily in that order. It was shocking to realize but he was too tired to get and keep an erection even if he could see Baxter. Lifting and shoving aside two stacks of file folders on his desk, he opened each drawer, one after the other and rummaged around inside. Nothing. Then Cam checked his suit coat pockets. Nothing. Next, he checked his briefcase and computer bag. Still nothing. Then he checked the floor around his desk. "Madeline," Cam yelled. "Do you have any idea where my cell phone is? I can't find it anywhere." Instead of yelling back an answer, she suddenly appeared in the open doorway. "You need to put a leash on that phone, or even a bell. You lose it at least once a day." "Don't remind me." He spied the loathsome piece of technology hiding under the paper his breakfast burrito had come wrapped in. "Gotcha." His secretary grinned and pointed. "Now that your cell phone crisis is over, your sister is on line two." Cameron dropped into his chair. "Tell her you made a mistake and that I already left." "Oh, no. I'm not lying to my best friend-- the woman who's privy to my deepest, darkest secrets. Besides, I A Rocky Start - 66

already told her you were still here." She shook her head and pointed. "Talk to Allison. She sounded upset." That got Cameron's attention. Allison was the kindest, most upbeat, sincere person he knew, and he'd strangle whoever upset her. He inhaled deeply and picked up the phone. "Hey, baby sister. What's going on? Madeline said you were worried about something." "Oh, Cam. I need your help. I'm desperate and can't think of anything else to do." Her voice came over the phone line, tight, strained and talking so fast he could hardly understand her. "I know you probably have work to do this weekend, and you're probably tired because you've worked hard this week, like you always do, but there isn't anyone else to call at the last minute." "Whoa. Whoa. Slow down. I don't have any idea what you're talking about." "Right. Sorry. I'm freaking out a little." He heard her take a deep breath and silence filled the phone line for several seconds. "Allison. Tell me why you're upset. What's going on?" "You remember Andy don’t you? He’s one of my regular bartenders. Anyway his wife called from the hospital a few minutes ago. He vomited most of the night, but didn't agree to go to the Emergency Room until eight this morning. They're pumping him full of IV antibiotics and taking him into surgery to remove his appendix any minute."

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"Okay." This still didn't explain why his normally calm and collected sister had called him in a panic. "I'm sorry to hear Andy's sick, but what do you think I can do about it?" "I have a society wedding for two hundred people scheduled for this weekend. The rehearsal dinner is tonight and the wedding is late tomorrow afternoon, with a sit-down dinner and dance to follow. I need you to tend bar with Phil." As soon as the words were out of Allison's mouth, Cameron thought she'd lost her mind. "Are you nuts? I haven't tended bar since I graduated law school and got my first job. It's been over ten years since I did more than mix an occasional drink at a family gathering or for a date." "I know. I know. I've called all my back-up bartenders, but they're already committed for the weekend at other events. There's no one else to call, big brother. You're my last hope. I need you." Allison had used the big brother card and, despite being tired enough to fall on his face, Cam couldn't say no when his sister needed him. "All right. It's against my better judgment. I'll help, but don't expect too much. I'm out of practice. Tell me when and where." The high-pitched squeal that came through the receiver almost deafened him. "Cameron Spencer Hamilton, I love you. I love you. I love you. You are the best big brother ever. How can I ever thank you? Just tell me. Anything. Anything at all." A Rocky Start - 68

Cam rolled his eyes. As if he'd refuse to help his sister when she was desperate. "You still haven't told me when or where." "The events are taking place at Saint Michael's United Methodist on the corner of Piedmont and Bennett Avenues. Take the drive to the back of the building and park near the recreation center entrance. The rehearsal starts at seven, and a simple meal and drinks will follow." "What am I supposed to wear?" "Black slacks or jeans, black shoes and belt, and a white or black shirt." "So boring." A heavy sigh came through the line. "Exactly right. You need to wear uninteresting, blend into the décor clothes. The clients prefer we serve and are at their beck and call, but that we stay as invisible as possible." While his sister rattled on, Cameron hoisted his tired body onto his feet, gathered his empty insulated coffee mug and keys, and slung his computer strap over his shoulder. "I'll try to be at the church by six-thirty to help Phil set up, but I need to drive home and nap for an hour or I won't be any good to you or anyone else." "Thanks. I'll make it up to you. I promise." "Don't worry about it." Cameron grinned even though he knew she couldn't see him. "On second thought, you can buy me a bottle of expensive Scotch." A Rocky Start - 69

Early Evening "Mom wants you to hurry up," Baxter's brother, David said as he hurried into their parent's bedroom. "She says we need to leave in ten minutes or we'll be late for the rehearsal." "Fuck off, baby brother." As David, walked into the room, Baxter stripped off his blood streaked shirt and tossed it toward, but missing, the clothes hamper. "I'm tired and hurrying as fast as I can. After the day Juan and I had, you're lucky I made it here at all." "Yeah, right. You aren't moving too fast if you ask me. Is your age catching up with you?" "Don't make me beat your annoying ass the night before your wedding. I'm only thirty-five and had a hard day chasing down bad guys." Baxter pointed to his shirt. "Note the bloodstains... and they're not mine." His brother leaned against the doorframe. "Whatever. You live for the chase." "What can I say? I enjoy my job, and like putting criminals behind bars. It's what I'm good at." "Come on." David tapped his watch. "Grab a shirt out of Dad's closet and hurry up. I don't want Sandy angry because you're moving like a ninety year-old man with one foot in the grave." Baxter flipped David off as he walked into the closet. A Rocky Start - 70

Like being late to the wedding rehearsal would be bad. Baxter wanted to like his future sister-in-law, had tried since she and David first started dating the year before, but he just couldn't warm up to her. To his way of thinking, his brother's fiancé was cold and self-absorbed, but what did he know. It was possible he'd grow to like her when they became better acquainted, but he doubted it. Time was running out. He either talked to his brother now, tonight, or forever had to hold his peace, just like the wedding vows said. Baxter walked back into the bedroom, a long-sleeved crimson Henley in one hand. He stared at his brother and took a deep breath. "Are you sure you want to go through with the wedding? If you want to change your mind you still have plenty of time to call the ceremony off." "What the hell are you talking about? Of course, I want to go through with it. Why wouldn't I?" "David, you're my little brother; I love you and want you to be happy. That's why I'm asking. If you have any doubt that Sandra is the woman you love and want to marry tomorrow, you need to say so -- now, while you still can. It's not too late to call it off." Before Baxter could get the shirt he was pulling over his head, untangled, David shoved him hard enough that he fell over their mother's spindly legged vanity chair and onto the carpeting. "I don't believe you. All this time, and you pick now to tell me you don't like the woman I'm marrying." A Rocky Start - 71

"Don't put words in my mouth. I never said I didn't like Sandra." "But you're hinting you don't like her with your question. Did I ever given you a reason, even one, to think I'm making a mistake? Have I?" David's eyes narrowed. "You're jealous." "Don't be ridiculous. I'm not jealous. I'm seeing someone." Baxter's comment wasn't a lie. He was seeing someone, someone he already cared for, and if life and work would cooperated they might get to spend a little time alone together. Baxter rolled to his feet and punched his brother on the shoulder once he got close enough. "Don't do that again." "Then don't make me angry the evening of my wedding rehearsal." "That wasn't my intent. I just want you to be sure -- that you don't have any regrets." David moved closer until he was standing toe-to-toe with Baxter. "You're the best older brother a man could ever have, and I love you. Believe me when I say I have no regrets -- not one -- that Sandy is the woman who makes me happy." "That's all I needed to hear." Baxter shoved the bottom of his shirt into his pants and pulled up the zipper. "Enough of this touchy-feely crap." He pushed his brother toward the door. "Let's get downstairs before Mom comes after us."

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Evening "Come on. Move it. Get out of my way. I'm late." Cam downshifted and pulled his BMW around a doubleparked delivery van. "Ally is going to kill me." At the light, he shifted again, turned the corner on Piedmont and skidded to a stop when a car driven by an elderly man changed lanes in front of him without signaling. "Son of a bitch." Once Cam's heart rate returned to normal and he could unclench his whiteknuckle grip on the steering wheel, he signaled and drove around the other car. Half a block down the street, Cam turned his car into the church parking lot, cringing when he counted at least twenty-five vehicles already parked and empty, the building ablaze with light. "Shit, just how large is this wedding?" Seeing a sign, Cam followed the arrow to the side drive leading to the back of the building. He pulled into the nearest empty parking slot, and turned off the engine, just as Allison bolted through the door, heading straight for him. By her expression, she's wasn't happy. A second look as he climbed out of the car and locked the door confirmed his first impression. She was angry, and he could almost see the steam coming out of her ears. "How mad are you?" "Very! What happened to you? Where have you been? When you didn't answer the phone I was afraid you weren't coming, or that you'd been in an accident." A Rocky Start - 73

Like he'd blow off his sister after promising to help her. Cam rolled his eyes. "I told you I'd be here, and I am. I'm just a little late." "Late? Late?" Her voice got a little shriller with each word. "I expected you almost thirty minutes ago to help Phil set up the bar. The rehearsal's ready to start, and the bar isn't ready yet." "And I'm sorry I was so exhausted I overslept, but I did. Deal with it." She fell against his chest, burrowing closer as his arms came up to wrap around her. "I don't mean to sound so ungrateful," Ally mumbled into his shirt. "You're tired after a rough week in court. It's just this wedding is my first chance to break into the money's-no-object clients, and I want my part of the festivities to go off without a hitch. Everything needs to be perfect." He poked her in the ribs. "Go off without a hitch... wedding... getting hitched. You get it?" Ally jabbed him back. "Don't make fun of me. I'm serious." "I know you are, Ally girl." Cam noticed his sister's red face and the frustration simmering behind her anger. He grabbed her sleeve, and pulled her toward the door. "Buck up, Sis. Everything will be fine. You'll see." *** Baxter stared at the clock hanging over the sanctuary entrance. They'd been standing around rehashing insignificant details the bride and her mother should A Rocky Start - 74

have settled before the wedding party arrived for nearly an hour. He was hungry and wanted the rehearsal over with. Now, if not sooner. And he didn't like Sandy glaring at him whenever she thought he wasn't looking. "How much longer is this going to take?" Baxter mumbled to the groomsman standing next to him. "I missed lunch and I'm starving. The smell coming out of the recreation hall is making my mouth water." He reached up to touch his mouth. "Is there drool on my face?" "No drool." Jeff whispered back. "Three times through the ceremony is plenty." "I couldn't agree more." Baxter stared at the back of his brother's head, willing him to stop his misery and call an end to the rehearsal agony. "Do you think Sandra would notice if we left?" David turned as if on cue, and glared daggers at Baxter and Jeff. "She might not, but I would. Shut the hell up and pay attention to what's going on." It might be immature, but Baxter stuck his tongue out at his brother anyway. "I'm going to tell Mom you said hell in church." "Don't make me beat your oversized ass." He couldn't help it. Baxter chuckled. He outweighed his brother by at least thirty pounds, and was at least four inches taller. "I'd like to see you try, computer geek boy. Remember, I've got a gun." A Rocky Start - 75

"And I'm going to take it away from you and shoot you with it, if you don't shut up." "Don't threaten me, Davy." Their father's deep rumbling voice cut through the sanctuary like a whip. "Knock it off, boys." They answered, "Yes, Dad," in unison, then started to laugh. It was at times like these that Baxter remembered how much he loved and valued his family, despite their vocal disagreements. He and David had had plenty of loud 'discussions' while growing up and into their adult years, but it hadn't changed them as brothers. Baxter just hoped Sandra and her social-standing conscious parents wouldn't try to pull David away from his family, because Baxter would fight her tooth and nail. *** "Cam, do you have any idea when this shindig is starting?" Phil tapped his watch. "We're already late serving, and I need to get home and finish grading term papers." "It shouldn't be long now. When I checked a few minutes ago, it looked like the rehearsal was winding down." "Thank God. I'm tired of waiting." "Me, too. Where's Ally?" Phil nodded to the kitchen area. "She's fussing." A Rocky Start - 76

"Ah!" That sounded like his obsessive sister. "Always striving to do better." "Like I said, she's fussing." Cam scanned the recreation hall and everything looked perfect. The white tablecloths were spotless, the crystal wineglasses and dinnerware sparkled, the floral table arrangements were subdued but stunning, and the smells coming from the heated chafing dishes made his mouth water. He was so proud of Ally and what she'd accomplished, he could burst. Dozens of bottles of alcohol and mixers, buckets of ice and soda, and every flavor of fruit juice imaginable stocked the temporary bar. He and Phil had sliced and wedged what seemed like dozens of lemon and limes, and the glassware glistened under the overhead lights. Everything around him appeared ready to go, the wedding party and guests should walk through the reception halls doors any second, and sleep was all Cam could think about. How pathetic was he? He was only thirty-three years old and he'd taken a nap before going out for the evening, and it hadn't been long enough. He might fall asleep on his feet. Phil came up behind him and shoved him toward the only comfortable looking chair in the room. "Man, you need to sit down, before you fall on your face." Cam took a stumbling step forward. "I am a bit tired."

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"More than a bit I'd say, judging by the circles under your eyes." "Maybe I will sit and rest my eyes until the wedding party arrives." *** "Oh, my God. Are we finally done?" Baxter whispered to Jeff. "Please tell me this nightmare is over, before I keel over from hunger. I haven't eaten since breakfast." "Why didn't you stop for a hamburger on the way here," Jeff whispered back. "You should have realized Sandy and her mother would drag this boring rehearsal out longer than necessary. It's not as if we've never been in a wedding before." "I didn't stop because I expected dinner at a reasonable hour." A quick scan around the room showed Baxter wasn't the only person wanting the rehearsal to end. He nudged his fellow groomsman with his shoulder. "My Dad's tired of sitting around, too. He's checked his watch at least five times in the last ten minutes." "Take a peek at the bride's father. He's ready to explode." Jeff then nodded to the small group of people gathered off to the side. "The organist's packing up her stuff, surely that means the rehearsal is about over." "I hope so. The wait for this to end is worse than a stakeout." Baxter rolled his shoulders and twisted his neck back and forth, trying to release the tight muscles he'd gotten earlier in the day after tackling a fleeing suspect. A Rocky Start - 78

"While everything's quiet, I'm going to see if the caterer is ready to serve." "You just want to sneak in and grab a bite to eat." "True." Baxter nodded to the bride and groom. "Cover for me. If I'm missed -- lie." "You're on your own," Jeff hissed as Baxter snuck away. "Sandra and her mother scare me." "Wuss." Leaving Jeff to fend for himself, Baxter stepped off the front dais, around the large carved pulpit and down the side aisle to the sanctuary front entrance. He looked for a sign showing the way to the recreation hall, following an arrow down a long hallway past rest rooms, offices and several brightly decorated classrooms. He'd almost reached the end of the hall when he caught a meaty whiff that caused his stomach to rumble loudly enough to wake the dead. "Oh, good. Food." Picking up the pace, Baxter skidded to a stop at the recreation hall entrance, taking in the soft music playing in the background, stocked bar, small loaded dessert cart, and the linen covered tables. As attractive as the room and decorations appeared; for a guy -- a gay guy at that -- the only things Baxter found interesting were the food and drink. At least nothing else interested him until he saw a familiar male body curled up in an overstuffed chair a few feet from the bar. "What the hell?" A Rocky Start - 79

"Excuse me. Are you with the wedding party? Are they about ready for us to serve?" Baxter shifted his attention to the voice coming from behind him. "My little brother's the groom. They're wrapping up the rehearsal now." He peered at his still sleeping lover, then back to the tall, lanky man standing behind the bar. "What's Cam doing here?" The man's eyes narrowed suspiciously. "Who are you and how do you know Cam?" "The name's Baxter Alexander. A case we worked on together ended this morning." "Attorney?" He shook his head and glance back to Cameron for a few seconds. "No. Homicide Detective." "My name's Phil." The newly introduced man stepped out from behind the bar and extended his hand. "In answer to your first question, Cam put himself through law school tending bar. His sister is the caterer, and the guy I usually work weddings with had emergency surgery this morning, so he's here to help out." Cam shifted in the chair but didn't wake, the dark circles and clear fatigue worrisome to Baxter. "He's exhausted. How long's he been asleep?" "Maybe, twenty minutes. He was falling asleep on his feet."

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Obviously Cameron was working too hard and not getting enough rest. Such severe exhaustion wouldn't do. Wouldn't do at all. It was dangerous and unhealthy. If he had anything to say about it, Cameron was spending most of the weekend resting, even if Baxter had to tie the man to his bed. "I better wake Cam. We should be ready to serve in a few more minutes." Standing at the kitchen doorway, Baxter noticed a small, frowning woman. "I'll do it." "Thanks, man." "No problem." In fact, for Baxter it was a pleasure. If his luck held, he might even get a kiss after waking his lover before the rest of the wedding party arrived. He rubbed his hands together in expectation of a little physical contact and advanced across the room. Cameron appeared so much younger when asleep and Baxter hated to wake him. He reached out and brushed aside a curly lock hanging across Cameron's closed eyes. The hair fell back into place and Baxter brushed it aside again, only this time his lover's hand came up, as if batting away an annoying fly. Baxter grinned and brushed away the stray lock of hair a third time, surprised when his lover shifted in the chair but remained asleep. He leaned down to whisper in Cam's ear at the same the sleeping man woke with a start, his head whipping up, the top striking Baxter in the nose. Hard. "Son of a bitch." The searing, blistering white-hot pain blinded A Rocky Start - 81

Baxter for an instant, his knees gave out and his landed on the floor at Cameron's feet, the blood flowing like a swift moving stream down his face. "Damn it, babe. I think you broke my nose." Night They hadn't seen a doctor yet, but Cameron was certain he'd broken Baxter's nose badly enough Baxter would need to see an ear, nose and throat doctor once the swelling went down. The skin around Baxter’s eyes had changed to an ugly shade of dark purple and dried blood caked his once spotless shirt and pants. "I'm so sorry. I didn't mean to hurt you." Baxter removed the ice pack from his twisted nose. "Babe, will you please stop saying you're sorry. It was an accident and mostly my fault. I scared you or you wouldn't have jumped." "That doesn't make me less sorry. I shouldn't have fallen asleep." "Stop blaming yourself. You were exhausted from a hectic workweek and needed to be in bed. Instead you tried to be a good brother and help your sister out in a crisis." Baxter touched his nose. "How bad does my face look?" How bad? It looked like someone had hit Baxter in the face with a baseball bat, one swing for every member of A Rocky Start - 82

the team... and the staff. "It's terrible, and your brother and his fiancé are going to kill me." Baxter's attempt at a smile ended in a pained grimace. "I'm not going to let anyone hurt you, Cam, especially not the dragon-lady my little brother is marrying tomorrow afternoon." "It's not just your future sister-in-law. Your whole family hates me." Cameron tried to run his hand through his tousled hair, but his fingers snagged in a clump of dried blood. "Gross." Baxter gripped Cameron's hand. "Now you're being paranoid. My family doesn't hate you, and even if they did, it wouldn't matter to me." "If you're sure." "Babe, I'm sure. Stop worrying." He grinned; using his free hand put his ice pack back in place. "If I was you, I'd be more worried about your sister and what she has to say. I thought she was going to have a stroke." "That's because your brother had me in a headlock. He thought I'd bloodied your nose on purpose." But it was the impact with Baxter’s nose and mouth that caused the problem. Between the blood from the gash on the top of his head from Baxter’s teeth and the blood from Baxter’s nose, Cameron’s hair was a damp mess that had gotten all over the groom's shirt and pants. What a nightmare. "I didn't ruin the rehearsal dinner intentionally."

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Baxter ran his thumb across Cameron's palm in soothing circles. "Tell that to the irate bride and your sister." "Excuse me, sir. The nurse at the desk said you were Baxter Alexander. Is that correct?" The sound of an annoyed male voice pulled Cameron's attention from the conversation he was having with Baxter, to the two young uniformed officers standing in front of them. One even rested his hand on the butt of his gun, as if he expected trouble. And Cameron didn't care for the smirk on the face of the other one either. "Yes, I am," Baxter answered. "What do you need?" "I'm Officer Morton and this is Officer Sexton. We're here because some of the staff is concerned that the story of how you were injured might not be correct... that they resulted from an assault by a domestic partner. We're here to take a report and arrest your assailant if you want to press charges." "Press charges? Are you joking?" "Assault is not a joking matter, Mr. Alexander," Sexton, the taller of the two said in a dry, flat tone of voice. "We take domestic violence very seriously." Cameron jumped to his feet. "It was a stupid accident. I didn't do it on purpose. Shit." The second officer, Morton stepped closer, putting him body between Baxter and Cameron. "It would be better if you moved away from Mr. Alexander. Now." A Rocky Start - 84

Baxter lowered his ice pack. "Are you two out of your minds? It was an accident." He grabbed Cameron's sleeve. "Stop pacing and calm down." "I'm tired, cranky, have a wound on my scalp, dried blood on my clothes, and these two," he pointed to the policemen, "want to arrest me for assaulting you." "No one's arresting you." He nodded to the seat next to him. "Sit." He plopped onto the seat. "Fine." Officer Sexton stepped forward, standing as if he expected Cameron to jump him. "I'd like to take your statement while my partner talks to your friend." "Just a minute." Baxter pulled out his phone, dialed and waited for someone on the other end to answer. "This is Alexander. Whose bright idea was it to send rookies Sexton and Morton to the emergency room to hassle me? My face hurts and I'm not in the mood." The longer Baxter talked, the more uncomfortable the two young officers became. It was mean and vindictive, and Cameron didn't care. He grinned and rubbed his hands together, on seeing his lover's frown. "This should be good." "What's that supposed to mean?" Sexton asked. "I don't like the sound of that. Who's he talking to?" Cameron grinned bigger this time. "I'd guess someone he knows at the police dispatch center." He sensed the men's unease and couldn't stay quiet. He wanted them to A Rocky Start - 85

know how much their friends at the station had screwed them over by sending them to the emergency room to pester his man. "Didn't anyone tell you? Baxter's a homicide detective." The eyes of both men got as big as dessert plates. "And that would make you who?" Officer Morton asked. "I'm the boyfriend, Assistant District Attorney, Cameron Hamilton." Sexton groaned and looked at Baxter, grimacing on seeing him end the call. "He doesn't look happy. We are so screwed." Midnight "Does your face hurt? Did the pain pills kick in yet? Can I get you anything?" Cameron was driving Baxter insane asking how he felt every five minutes. Instead of cursing with frustration, he took another soothing breath and placed his ice pack back against his eye that had almost swollen shut. "The Vicodin started working about thirty minutes ago... and no I don't need anything." "If you're sure." "Stop hovering." Baxter patted the couch next to him. "And come sit with me."

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"What about your ice pack? Does it need refilling? Is it cold enough?" "Cam. Stop. Come sit. Now." Cameron plopped onto to the couch, but at the other end. "Fine. Don't let me take care of you." Baxter mentally counted to six and then threw his ice pack at Cameron's chest. "Stop pouting." "I don't pout." Cameron crossed his arms over his chest. "Ever." "Right. Tell me something I might believe." His arms dropped onto his lap and Cameron wouldn't meet Baxter's eyes. "You say I shouldn't feel guilty about what happened, but I do." He waved his hand back and forth between them. "I don't hurt people and even though it was an accident, it's killing me that I injured someone I care about." A grin slowly spread over Baxter's bruised and battered face and he didn't even care that the smile hurt like hell. "What are you in such a good mood about?" Cameron snapped. "You." Baxter reached across the distance separating them and snagged Cameron's wrist - pulling him across the couch and onto Baxter’s lap. "Because I care about you, too. I have for months."

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"Explain what that means to you...what you want? Do you care about me like a friend or fuck buddy? Do we date at all? Are we a couple, or do we date other people? Do you want a casual relationship or is it exclusive?" Baxter clamped his free hand over Cameron's mouth. "Whoa, babe. You're brain's going ninety miles an hour. Relax and let me answer. First of all, I'm not interested in casual sex. Second, I want you as my friend, but you're my guy, too. And last but not least, we're a couple -- an exclusive couple, and I don't share." Cameron relaxed and snuggled closer. "Does that answer your questions?” Baxter pulled back until he could see Cameron's face. "Is that all right with you?" "It's more than all right." Cameron leaned forward and murmured in his ear. "It's perfect." "Good." He tapped Cameron on the hip and nodded to the opposite side of the room. "The week has been hell on us both and every time we've tried to spend more than a few minutes together, something or someone has interrupted. What say you to taking this to the bedroom?" "I say it sounds like a great idea." Cameron grinned and jumped to his feet. "Do you have stuff? Tell me you have stuff?" "The condoms and lube are in the nightstand." "Wait." A Rocky Start - 88

"Is there a problem?" asked Baxter. "Are you sure we should do this? What about your face? Doesn't your head hurt?" Baxter climbed off the couch. "Stop worrying. The Vicodin is working and I'll be fine if you ride me." He grinned and herded Cameron into the bedroom. "You can bottom from the top." "My new favorite." "Get out of your clothes," Baxter growled in his ear. "Or do you need help?" Damn, but Cameron smelled good: musky man and whatever spicy cologne he wore. Baxter’s lover stood so close, it tempted him to rip the clothes right off Cameron's luscious body. His fingers itched to touch, to bare the man's skin to his hands and lips. "I can do it." Cameron started stripping his shirt off so fast; buttons went flying across the room. As soon as Cameron had removed the last piece of clothing, Baxter caressed his bare hip. "Grab the stuff out of the top drawer and climb on the bed." While Cam rummaged for the lube and condoms, Baxter finished stripping off his own clothes. He climbed up on the bed and propped himself into a sitting position against the headboard. "Ready for your ride, babe?" "Giddy up, cowboy." A Rocky Start - 89

"You did not say that." "Now all we need to do is slick up your saddle horn and give me a little stretch, and we'll be good to go." "You're certifiable." Cameron waggled his eyebrows. "Yeah, but you like me anyway." "Come here, you nut." Baxter grabbed his cock and drew Cameron closer. "Get yourself ready. I want to watch." A quick kiss across his lover's lips and Cameron pulled away. With a big grin on his face, Cam started dancing around the room, doing a slow bump and grind, swiveling his hips, keeping just out of Baxter's reach. Baxter made a lunge for Cam's arm but missed. "Get up here." "Don't be so impatient." He tossed the condoms on the bed and spun toward the desk. Uncapping the lube, Cameron squeezed a large dollop onto his fingers. Another shift of his hips and one foot was on the chair, allowing him to brush against his hole before thrusting one finger inside. "God, that's good." "Cam, baby, come here," Baxter panted. "Don't' make me come after you." Cameron didn't answer or move closer; instead he added a second finger and then a third, thrusting them in and A Rocky Start - 90

out of his hole. "Good." Cameron groaned and rolled his head from side to side. "So good." "And it would be even much better if you walked your fine backside over here, so I can get my hands on it." Baxter leered and patted the mattress. "Come on babe, you're killing me here." He gritted his teeth, ready to beg, but decided on another plan instead. Guilt. He patted the mattress with one hand and pointed to his face with the other. "Face. Broken nose. Vicodin wearing off." Cameron's head swiveled on his neck, his mouth hanging open in surprise. "I forgot. Are you in pain? Do we need to wait until another time?" Baxter ran his hand up and down his cock, rubbing the leaking pre-come over his hot, aching flesh. "The only part of my body in pain right now is my dick, and if you want your ride, you'd better saddle up, cowboy." Cameron glared and stalked across the room. "Don't you dare come until you're buried in my ass." While Baxter ripped open the foil square and stretched the condom into place, Cameron climbed onto the bed and straddled Baxter's thighs. He grabbed the lube off the bed, unscrewed the cap and slathered the cool gel over the bobbing head, coating the entire shaft. Leaning forward Cam grabbed Baxter's cock and positioned the head at his body's back opening. Baxter gripped his hips, steadying him, as Cameron slowly sank down one agonizing inch at a time, until his wellA Rocky Start - 91

stretched hole had taken the entire length. "Feels good," he murmured. "Full. Don't move for a second." The tight, hot glove wrapped around Baxter's cock felt so good he thought the top of his head was going to blow off, and a low-pitched whimper rumbled out of his chest. Gritting his teeth, he tried to keep from thrusting. He panted, groaned and stared straight into Cameron's beautiful brown eyes. "Shit, you're tight." Cameron panted, his whole body shaking. "I don't do this nearly enough." "We'll see what we can do to change that." The tight squeeze of his lover's inner muscles was on the verge of squeezing his cock off at the root. Baxter waited what seemed like hours. His entire world focused on where his body joined Cam's, until he finally sensed the muscles holding him in a stranglehold relax, and he heard the words he'd been waiting for. "I'm good. Let's ride." "Thank God, you're killing me." Cameron swiveled his hips and started to move. "Never been so full. God, you feel good." The tingling sensation crawling from his cock to his spine made all the hair on Baxter's body stand on end. He shuddered, he shivered and then he did a full body shake that nearly unseated his writhing lover from his cock. Baxter gripped Cameron's hips to steady him. "Sorry, babe." A Rocky Start - 92

"I like that I can get you so worked up." He ran his hands up Baxter's muscled chest, swirled his fingertip around and around the areola, and just as Baxter's eyelids closed, he pinched the nipples. Hard. Baxter eye's popped open, he bent his knees, planted his feet flat on the mattress and thrust up, ramming his cock in a new, powerful counterpoint to Cameron's gentler slid. He tipped his hips and the next upward thrust pegged the small pleasure gland tucked up inside Cameron's hot channel, making him groan. Baxter kept thrusting, each inward stroke making his lover writhe and pant. Baxter's balls tightened and drew up so close to his body that he ached with the need to come. The pressure continued to build, the tension at the base of his spine getting tighter, like every muscle in his body wanted to explode. "I'm not gonna last much longer, babe. Touch yourself. Come for me." Cameron grabbed his cock and started stroking, at first fast and smooth, but it wasn't long before his movements turned jerky and uncoordinated. Sweat rolled down Cameron's face and dripped onto Baxter's chest, the droplets almost sizzling hot on bare skin. "Gonna... gonna come. Any minute now," Cameron warned. "Do it, babe. Now. Come for me." Still thrusting, Baxter pulled Cameron down to his chest. He licked the side of his lover's neck and bit down on Cameron's shoulder. Cameron howled and thick streams of hot come shot out, coating their chests and hitting Baxter in the chin. A Rocky Start - 93

Baxter grunted as the viselike grip on his cock rippled down his throbbing length. He groaned, almost in agony, and finally, when he didn't think he could stand any more pleasure and stay conscious, climaxed, his back bowing off the bed. There wasn't enough air in his overtaxed lungs, and his chest started to hurt. His eyes locked on Cameron's and he grinned. "That was definitely worth the wait."

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Chapter Six Saturday Morning Cameron woke with sunshine glaring in the window, brightening a room he didn't recognize. He stiffened, wondering where he was. Then he felt the muscular arm lying over his waist and remembered he'd spent the night spooned against Baxter's warm body. "Relax, babe. You're fine. I've got you." Baxter. His muscles loosened and Cameron allowed his lover to pull him closer. "How long have you been awake?" "Just a few minutes. I've been watching you sleep." Cameron rubbed his eyes and yawned. "What time do you need to leave to get to the church? You don't want to be late for your brother's big day." "Not until late this afternoon. How about a kiss?" "Gladly." He shifted his hips and rolled over. "Oh, my God." Cameron bit his lower lip and reached up to touch Baxter's bruised, swollen face. "I don't know how it's possible but your face is even worse this morning. Do you need a pain pill or an ice pack?" "I'm fine. I snuck out of bed an hour ago, took a couple of Vicodin and ate a slice of banana bread."

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"Good, because you look like hell and it's all my fault. I wouldn’t blame your family if they did hate me." Baxter chuckled and pulled Cameron back into his arms. "Calm down. Last night while you were getting your gash stapled, I called David. His best friend, Wiley, is stationed at the San Diego Naval Base, and he managed to get home for the wedding. He's going to take my place as best man." "How upset are you?" "I'm not. Honestly. I'll tell you a little secret, and I'll deny it if anyone asks, but I'm not thrilled with my future sister-in-law. Trust me. I'll enjoy the wedding better from a distance." He squeezed Cameron's hand. "Besides, you'll be keeping me company." "What?" he squeaked. "You want me to go to the wedding with you? As your date? Are you out of your drug addled mind?" "Yes, as my boyfriend. Starting now, we go to family gatherings as a couple." Cameron started to tremble at the idea of meeting Baxter's mother and father. "Won't it make your parents angry if you bring a man to the wedding?" "Babe, I told them I'm gay years ago. While I was up earlier, I also talked to mom and dad and told them that while I was attending the service, it wouldn't be as a member of the wedding party. I also told them you'd be coming to the ceremony with me this afternoon. They know breaking my nose was a bizarre accident and they A Rocky Start - 96

don't blame you and they're not mad. In fact, they're anxious to meet you." After the way Cameron's parents had treated him when they discovered he was gay, it was difficult for him to grasp that not only didn't Baxter's parents not hate him, they still loved him. And they were open to the idea of their son loving another man. He shook his head in disbelief. Could it really be true or that easy? "I don't think it's a good idea, but if you want me to attend the wedding with you, I'll go. If you're certain?" Baxter laughed and hugged him. "I'm never been more certain of anything in my entire life." Late Afternoon "I must be out of my mind," Cameron muttered. "Certifiable." "What's that, Cam?" Baxter asked. "Nothing. Just talking to myself." How much longer before the wedding would start? Cameron nudged Baxter's shoulder, feeling comfort from the warmth radiating off Baxter's body. It was the only thing grounding him, keeping him from bolting from his seat. Cameron wished the floor of the crowded church sanctuary would open up and swallow him whole, putting him out of his misery. He dared another quick A Rocky Start - 97

peek at the other wedding attendees closest to where he and Baxter sat, and just as he expected, several people were staring while trying to make it appear they weren't. It wasn't working. "Will you please relax?" Baxter reached for Cameron's hand. "Breath." "I should have never agreed to come," Cameron whispered. "Everyone is staring." Baxter's head swiveled left and right. "No one's watching. You're just being paranoid." And his lover was right. No one was staring at them this exact moment, but that didn't mean they hadn't been just seconds before. Cameron rolled his eyes and slumped back against the pew. "And you're being oblivious to what going on around you." "I'm a trained professional. I'm always aware of what's going on around me." "Right. That's explains why you haven't noticed everyone staring at us since we walked in." Cameron peered at Baxter's face checking his pupils for a drug induced dilation. "Are you high? Did you take too many Vicodin before we left your house?" "No, I'm not high, and I only took one pill, which you gave me on the way out the door." "Then how did you miss everyone staring at us -- at me." Baxter's sense of smell might be messed up with his broken nose, but had he gone blind, too? That's when A Rocky Start - 98

Cameron noticed the smirk. "Are you jerking me around?" "No." Baxter leaned closer, his voiced dropping to a whisper. "I have a red, swollen nose, two black eyes and everyone is staring at us, wondering what the hell happened. I'm trying to keep your mind off my rude friends and family members." "It's not working." Cameron slid closer. "But thanks for making the attempt." "You must admit, breaking my son's nose like you did was a strange accident," interrupted Baxter's dad, John, from the pew in front of them. "I mean, look at Baxter's poor face." "For God's sake, Dad. You're not making him feel any better." Cameron winced. "Baxter, I knew this was a bad idea. I should leave." "Don't be ridiculous," Mrs. Alexander piped up. "Nonsense. You're not going anywhere." She reached over the pew back and patted Cameron's leg. "If this blasted wedding ceremony ever gets over with we'll have the rest of the evening to talk. It'll be fun." "Mom, you're freaking him out." "He's right, Jackie. Poor Cameron is probably shaking in his shoes at the idea of meeting our family, especially considering what happened. Baxter's a damn mess." A Rocky Start - 99

"Dad!" "No, Baxter, it's fine," Cameron answered as sincerely as he could, when inside he was anything but calm. "It's understandable your family would be curious about me. I hurt you." Slipping an arm around Cameron's shoulders, Baxter pulled him closer. "Babe. Give it a rest." "Babe, huh?" questioned John. "Son, it's about time you found a man to love. Your mother and I had almost given up hope." His eyes widened, his jaw dropped and Cameron felt a little lightheaded. Had he heard right? No, it couldn't be. It wasn't possible. Yet, Baxter wasn't denying it either. Did Baxter love him? "Close your mouth, dear," Jackie commented as she patted Cameron's knee again. "You're the first man our son has ever wanted us to meet, so we knew you were special when he called to say you'd be attending his brother's wedding." "Mom, are you trying to run the man off?" Baxter asked, his voice taking on a hard edge that had Cameron's head whipping around. "You're making him uncomfortable." "Baxter, you should know by now that your mother speaks her mind." John turned until he was facing Cameron. "We can talk more during the reception, but we're glad for the chance to get acquainted."

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What he wanted to say involved several obscenities, but instead Cameron heard the words, "I'd like that," come out of his mouth. "Suck up." Baxter bumped his shoulder. "Brown-noser. You're just trying to get on my parent's good side." "Leave him alone." Jackie glared at her son. "It's natural than he'd want to get along with us." Cameron grinned. "Pay attention to your mother. She said to leave me alone." "Babe, I'm never leaving you alone." Baxter stared at him, his expression an odd mix of love, hope and expectation, which shook Cameron to the core. "Not going to happen. You're stuck with me. The forever kind of stuck. Think you can deal with me on a full-time basis?" Could he? Hell yes, he could. Gladly. Baxter might not have said the four letter word out loud but he spoke of being around forever, and to Cameron that meant commitment and love. Everything he wanted was almost in his grasp. All he had to do was to take his lover at his word and seize the future being offered. "Yeah," Cameron agreed. "I think I could get used to having you around for a few decades." "Good." He could hear the relief in Baxter's voice. "That's real good."

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It didn't matter that John and Jackie could hear everything they said or that the wedding could start any second. Cameron wrapped his hand around Baxter’s nape, bringing their lips together. "I love you." "I know." A small, pleased smile curved the edges of Baxter's lips, letting Cameron know everything was going to be just fine.

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